Tragedy struck in South Korea as a powerful explosion at a lithium battery factory claimed the lives of 22 people, with one worker still missing. The fire in Hwaseong city caused workers to lose consciousness and perish within seconds due to toxic smoke from stored lithium batteries. Rescue efforts are ongoing to find the missing worker, with human remains and personal effects being recovered for identification.
Authorities are conducting a joint investigation to determine the cause of the accident, with most victims being temporary workers at the plant. The identities of the deceased, including Chinese and Laotian nationals, are being confirmed through DNA tests. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has called for urgent safety inspections and care for the victims’ families.
The incident has raised concerns about safety regulations and training for foreign workers. The heartbreaking tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of workplace safety and international cooperation in times of crisis.
![Search ongoing for missing worker after deadly fire at South Korea lithium battery plant. 1 Firefighters and police at the burnt battery factory](https://static.independent.co.uk/2024/06/25/05/South_Korea_Fire_55923.jpg)