Major fire sweeps through Seoul's last informal settlement

Firefighters and emergency responders mobilized rapidly to contain a blaze that tore through the densely-packed residential area in South Korea's capital. The fire forced the evacuation of residents from numerous makeshift structures that comprise the informal settlement, with over 100 people displaced from their homes.

Guryong Village has long represented one of the last remaining shanty-towns in Seoul, home to low-income residents living in substandard housing conditions. The area has faced ongoing redevelopment discussions and urban renewal pressures as Seoul continues its transformation into a modern metropolitan center.

Emergency services deployed multiple fire trucks and personnel to combat the blaze, prioritizing the safety of residents and preventing the fire's spread to surrounding areas. Authorities established temporary evacuation centers to accommodate displaced residents while damage assessments were underway.

The precise cause of the fire and the full extent of structural damage remained under investigation. Local authorities indicated they would coordinate with residents regarding housing and support services following the incident.