South Korean emergency agencies and municipal governments have raised fire safety measures nationwide ahead of the Chuseok holiday.
The move follows rising damage from seasonal blazes in recent years.
Data from the National Fire Agency, given to the office of Representative Ko Dong-jin on September 25, showed 3,386 fires during Chuseok holidays from 2021 through last year.
Those incidents caused 28 deaths, 171 injuries, and 41.526 billion won ($29.9 million) in property damage.
In last year's holiday period alone, crews recorded 672 blazes with nine deaths, 42 injuries, and 15.707 billion won ($11.3 million) in property losses.
That marked a 69.3% rise in incidents and a fourfold surge in damages compared with the previous year.
A similar pattern appeared during Lunar New Year holidays over the same five-year timeframe, with 3,386 total fires, 28 fatalities, 171 injuries, and 41.526 billion won in property destruction.
This year's Lunar New Year recorded 697 blazes, one death, 34 injuries, and 8.362 billion won ($6.0 million) in losses.
Nationwide Alert and Seoul Inspections
The National Fire Agency placed fire stations nationwide under a first-tier special alert from September 23 at 6 p.
m. through September 28 at 9 a.
m.
The alert uses its newly restructured hazard warning protocol, mobilizing rapid response units and expanding patrols around traditional markets and transportation hubs.
"Fire stations nationwide will maintain a seamless response posture so that the public can spend a safe and comfortable Chuseok holiday," said Joo Young-guk, head of the agency's 119 Response Bureau.
Seoul officials separately conducted targeted fire safety inspections from September 2 to 8 across five major hypermarkets and 10 high-density public facilities, including train stations and bus terminals.
Inspectors found 72 total deficiencies and uncovered six major safety violations.
They ordered the removal of illegal partition panels that turned stairwells and parking structures into storage space.
They also issued installation notices for missing sprinkler coverage in shopping arcades and employee areas.
City teams discovered blocked fire hydrants, improperly maintained sprinkler heads, missing exit lights, and propped-open fire doors during the sweeps.
They directed immediate on-site remedies and repairs before the holiday period.
"We will do our utmost to prevent fire hazards in advance and carry out safety measures so that citizens can enjoy a safe and comfortable Chuseok," said Choi Jin-seok, head of the Seoul Metropolitan Government's disaster and safety division.
The Seoul Metropolitan Government plans to coordinate follow-up district inspections.
It will also request that the National Fire Agency tighten sprinkler head installation standards for warehouse-style retail spaces to strengthen initial suppression capabilities.
