South Korea fire: Dozens forced to evacuate, more than 80 hospitalized

South Korea’s 33-storey tower block fire has been brought under control, local media said.

According to the details, hundreds were earlier evacuated from the building and more than 80 people are in hospital for smoke inhalation.

The fire reportedly began to spread at about 23:00 local time on Thursday and was spread by high winds.

After more than 13 hours, firefighters managed to stop the spread of the flames. However, the strong winds had initially made it difficult to control the fire.

The fire broke out between the 8th and 12th floors of the Samhwan Art Nouveau commercial and residential building, which has about 120 households and shopping units.

According to an eye witness, “Suddenly, the fire came up. The windows were broken and the living room and bedroom lit up.”

“Exterior material”, possibly insulation, attached to the outside of the building that caused the fire to spread quickly, told another.

Authorities have not confirmed what caused the fire, but investigation related to the matter is underway.