SEOUL, South Korea. A devastating fire, likely triggered by exploding lithium batteries, tore through a manufacturing facility near South Korea’s capital on Monday, resulting in the tragic loss of 22 lives, primarily Chinese migrant workers. Eight others were injured in the incident.
The fire erupted when batteries detonated while workers were handling and packaging them on the factory’s second floor in Hwaseong City, located just south of Seoul. Fire officials, citing an eyewitness, reported the incident occurred around 10:30 a.m. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the blaze.
Among the victims, 18 were Chinese nationals, two were South Koreans, and one was Laotian, according to local fire official Kim Jin-young during a televised briefing. The nationality of one deceased individual remains unverified.
Over the past few decades, a significant number of Chinese migrants, including ethnic Koreans, have sought employment opportunities in South Korea. Like other foreign workers from Southeast Asian countries, they often find themselves in physically demanding, low-paying jobs that are less desirable to more affluent South Koreans.
Kim also mentioned that one factory worker remains unaccounted for, and rescue teams continue their search efforts. Two of the injured workers are in serious condition.
The fire originated in one of the factory buildings owned by battery manufacturer Aricell. Authorities will investigate whether fire extinguishing systems were in place and functioning properly.
Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are ubiquitous in consumer electronics, from laptops to cell phones. However, if damaged, defective, or packaged incorrectly, they can overheat, leading to fires and explosions. This incident underscores the hazards associated with shipping such batteries aboard aircraft.
Carlo Juancho FuntanillaFrontend Developer, WordPress, Shopify
Contributing Editor
AMA ACLC San Pablo
