At least 22 people have died in South Korea following a powerful explosion and fire at a lithium battery factory in Hwaseong city. Most of the victims are foreigners, with 18 being Chinese nationals. The death toll is expected to rise, and rescue efforts are ongoing for missing individuals.
The blaze, which started with a series of battery cell explosions, created a high-intensity fire that made it challenging for firefighters to identify and rescue those trapped inside. The cause of the explosion is still unknown. The factory, a key player in South Korea’s lithium battery industry, suffered significant damage as parts of the building collapsed.
President Yoon Suk-yeol is closely monitoring the situation, and efforts are being made to prevent any chemical contamination from the incident. South Korea has a history of industrial accidents, prompting the government to prioritize safety in the country’s technology sector.