Fire Breaks Out at Kumho Tire Factory in Gwangju, Causing Structural Damage

A fire erupted at the Kumho Tire factory located in Songjeong-dong, Gwangju, early on May 17, 2025, leading to significant structural damage and the potential for further collapses. The blaze began around 7:11 AM, and as of 1:30 PM, thick black smoke continues to rise from the site, marking over six hours of firefighting efforts.

The fire has caused parts of the factory building to collapse, complicating firefighting efforts due to the structure's sandwich panel construction, which makes it difficult to extinguish the flames from the outside. Fire authorities have expressed concerns about the possibility of additional collapses, prompting them to evacuate all firefighters who were battling the blaze inside. Reports indicate that one firefighter sustained second-degree burns and was transported to a hospital, while another suffered first-degree burns.

Initially, a Level 1 response was issued, mobilizing all personnel from the local fire station just 17 minutes after the fire started. However, as the situation escalated, a Level 2 response was declared at 7:59 AM, calling in all fire stations in Gwangju. By 10 AM, a national firefighting mobilization order was issued.

Fire authorities have deployed 65 firefighting vehicles and 167 personnel, including aerial support from firefighting helicopters. A high-capacity water spraying system capable of discharging 45,000 liters per minute has also been utilized, with assistance from the Central Special Rescue Team.

In light of concerns over water supply shortages for firefighting, local residents have been asked to conserve water usage during this emergency.