24 Jun 2024 | 12:55 PM UTC
South Korea: Fatalities reported following major fire at Jeongok Industrial Complex in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province, late June 24 /update 1
Fire Jeongok Industrial Complex in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, leaves at least 22 people killed and seven injured June 24.
As of late June 24, a major fire at the Aricell battery manufacturing plant in Jeongok Industrial Complex, Hwaseong City, has resulted in the deaths of 22 workers and injuries to seven others. Reports indicate that around 20 of the workers killed were foreign nationals. The incident began around 10:30, and authorities successfully extinguished the fire by 15:10. The fire reportedly started when a single battery cell caught fire, causing explosions among stored lithium battery cells.
Heightened security and associated lingering disruptions are possible over the coming hours.
The incident site is approximately 27 km (17 miles) southwest of Suwon City.
Avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear. Seek alternative routes and allow additional travel time to nearby destinations. Plan according for potential localized lingering disruptions.
