On the 27th (local time), the U.S. Department of State expressed condolences for the significant loss of life and property caused by the wildfire that occurred in the Yeongnam region of South Korea.
The Department of State, in a statement issued in the afternoon by Spokesperson Tammy Bruce, said, “We sincerely express our condolences to the people of the Republic of Korea for the tragic loss of life and property caused by this wildfire.”
It continued, “The United States will stand with its ally during this difficult time. U.S. forces stationed in Korea are also prepared to assist in firefighting and support the affected areas.” Previously, helicopters belonging to U.S. forces in Korea, including the Black Hawk (UH-60) and Chinook (CH-47), were deployed for firefighting and water supply operations in Sancheong, Gyeongnam.
The Department of State expressed, “We mourn the deaths of courageous firefighters and many others,” and added, “We pray for all families, displaced persons, and refugees during this tragic time.”
It also referenced the large wildfires that occurred earlier this year in the western United States, stating, “We have not forgotten the support from Korea for the damage caused by the wildfires in Los Angeles (LA) and Hawaii, and just as you stood with us, we will stand with you.”