Fire at South Korean Lithium Battery Plant Kills 22, Injures 8

A massive fire broke out at a lithium battery plant in Hwaseong, South Korea, on Monday, resulting in the deaths of 22 people and injuries to 8 others. The fire started at the Aricell plant around 10:30 a.m. and was extinguished just after 3 p.m.

Details of the Incident

Among the deceased were one Laotian and eighteen Chinese workers. The nationality of one worker is still unknown. South Korean authorities discovered the bodies and confirmed the casualties.

Response from Authorities

President Yoon Suk-yeol has directed authorities to mobilize all staff and equipment to focus on searching for and rescuing people. Due to the smoke from the fire, Hwaseong authorities issued advisories asking the public to stay inside and close their windows.

About Lithium Battery Fires

Thermal run, a phenomenon that can occur when lithium batteries overheat or are pierced, is known to cause explosions or fires in devices such as electric cars, laptops, and phones.