Pilot killed as helicopter crashes while battling fire in South Korea

DAEGU, South Korea — A helicopter crashed during a firefighting operation in the southeastern city of Daegu on Sunday, killing the pilot, local authorities confirmed.

The incident occurred as emergency crews were responding to a fire that broke out on a hillside in the city. The blaze was brought under control roughly an hour after it started, according to the Daegu Fire Department.

The identity of the pilot has not yet been released, and the cause of the crash remains under investigation.

The tragedy comes amid heightened concern over wildfires in the region. Just last month, South Korea experienced its worst wildfire season on record.

Fueled by strong winds and dry weather, multiple fires swept across southeastern areas of the country, leaving 31 people dead, including another pilot who died when his helicopter crashed while battling the flames.

Authorities have launched a full investigation into Sunday’s crash and have vowed to enhance safety measures for aerial firefighting operations. — Agencies