South Korean authorities have declared a national mobilization order as wildfires continued to rage for a third consecutive day in the southeastern province of South Gyeongsang, causing widespread forest damage and prompting a large-scale emergency response.

The fires, which broke out in the Hamyang area of South Gyeongsang Province, have so far burned approximately 190 hectares of forest land, according to officials.

Authorities said intensive efforts are underway to prevent the flames from spreading to nearby residential areas. Firefighting operations have been complicated by steep terrain and strong winds, which continue to hinder containment efforts.

To combat the blaze, 105 fire engines and 603 personnel have been deployed to the region. In addition, 51 helicopters have been assigned to conduct aerial firefighting operations.

The national mobilization order was issued after the scale of the wildfire exceeded local response capacity, requiring coordinated support from across the country.

International media outlets also reported on the emergency response, noting the significant deployment of air and ground resources as authorities race to bring the fire under control.

Officials said efforts to fully contain the wildfire are ongoing. (ILKHA)