Tragic Fire at Busan Hotel Construction Site Claims Six Lives

A devastating fire broke out on February 14 at the construction site of the Banyan Tree Hotel in Busan, South Korea, resulting in the tragic loss of six lives and leaving twenty-five others injured. The blaze ignited just before 11 a.m. local time, as approximately 100 workers were present at the site. Most injuries were attributed to smoke inhalation, though they were deemed minor. The incident has raised significant concerns about safety protocols and the handling of flammable materials at construction sites.

The fire erupted on the first floor where workers had stored insulation materials, quickly escalating due to the presence of many flammable items blocking the building's entrance. Despite the rapid response from emergency services, including the National Fire Agency, the fire had already reached its peak before firefighters arrived.

"The fire had already reached its peak by the time we arrived and thick black smoke was covering the scene," – Hong Mun-sik, Busan Gijang Fire Station chief

Busan Gijang Fire Station Chief Hong Mun-sik confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine the precise cause and origin of the fire.

"The exact cause and location of the fire need to be thoroughly investigated," – Hong Mun-sik, Busan Gijang Fire Station chief

South Korea's acting president, Choi Sang-mok, emphasized the importance of safety during rescue operations and ensured that all necessary resources were deployed to extinguish the blaze.

"Every effort must be made to prevent casualties during search and rescue operations, while also ensuring the safety of firefighters," – Choi Sang-mok, South Korea's acting president

The Banyan Tree Hotel involved in the incident is owned and developed by an independent South Korean company. The management has clarified that Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts had not yet taken over operations at the site.

"The hotel is owned and developed by a non-related and independent South Korean company," – Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts

"Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts has been appointed by the owning company to manage the property once construction is completed and the hotel is ready to open." – Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts