As the fire at the Coupang logistics center in Incheon continued for a second day and concerns were raised about a possible structural collapse, the local government decided to issue an evacuation order for residents in nearby areas.
According to fire authorities on the 19th, Seohae District in Incheon decided to issue an evacuation order as of 11 p.m. for a 116-meter radius around the ramp area of the Seoknam-dong Coupang 32 Logistics Center. Although densely packed dwellings were not included within the radius, it was reported that small and medium-sized manufacturers and commercial buildings are located there.
Fire authorities set a goal of achieving initial extinguishment around 11 p.m. that day, but as the flames intensified again, it became difficult to achieve.
Fire authorities carried out demolition work for about an hour starting around 4 p.m. that day. The aim was to vent the heat and smoke filled inside to the outside and then send in firefighters. However, even after the demolition, the accumulated heat inside the building has not dissipated, preventing the deployment of personnel.
The fire began at about 6:54 a.m. the previous day. The logistics center where the fire broke out has a total floor area of 299,000 square meters and is eight stories above ground. Fire authorities are maintaining the national fire mobilization order and have mobilized 228 pieces of fire equipment and 721 personnel, including firefighters and police officers, to carry out firefighting operations for 40 hours.