Published Oct 24, 2024 at 8:08 AM EDTUpdated Oct 24, 2024 at 12:33 PM EDT00:24

South Korea and U.S. Announce Drills Against North Threats

By Billal Rahman

Afire broke out at a U.S. military base in South Korea, with dramatic footage showing flames ripping through a large building as firefighters battled the blaze.

The cause of the fire at Busan Naval Base is unknown, but it is understood to have begun at 6.30 p.m. local time on Thursday, according to media reports.

The U.S. military is stationed in South Korea to deter aggression against the republic and help ensure stability in Asia. It regularly conducts joint exercises with Seoul’s forces.

Footage on social media shows thick plumes of black smoke towering over the base.

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Newsweek reached out to the U.S. Embassy in Seoul and the United States Forces Korea for comment.

The city of Busan sent a text message to the Dong-gu, Jung-gu, Seo-gu, Yeongdo-gu and Nam-gu districts: “A fire broke out at the 55th Supply Depot in Dong-gu and a large amount of smoke and dust is generated, so nearby residents should be aware of window control and safety accidents.”

According to the Yonhap news agency, the fire broke out at the 55th Supply Depot in Beomil-dong, Dong-gu, Busan, at 6:31 p.m. The 55th Supply Depot is a U.S. military facility used for storing equipment brought in by U.S. forces through the port of Busan.

The fire is currently engulfing a large warehouse, measuring about 120 meters (394 feet) by 40 meters (131 feet).

Construction materials were reportedly found inside the warehouse.

Huge flames are rising above the warehouse, but there were no reported casualties, according to Yonhap.

The Busan Fire Department is working to prevent the fire from spreading to adjacent warehouses. The department said that 51 units of equipment and 163 personnel are reportedly involved.

(C)NEWSWEEK 2024