Fire Breaks Out At US Military Base In South Korea

A fire has broken out at a US military base in South Korea. Vivid footage shows firefighters battling the blaze as flames engulf a large building.

The cause of the fire at the Busan Naval Base is unclear, but according to media reports, it is believed to have started at 6:30 p.m. local time on Thursday.

US troops are stationed in South Korea to deter any aggression against South Korea and help ensure stability in Asia. Joint exercises are held regularly with Seoul’s military.

Images posted on social media showed thick black smoke billowing above the base.

Newsweek contacted the U.S. Embassy in Seoul and USFK for comment.

The city of Busan sent a text message to the Dong-gu, Jung-gu, Seo-gu, Yeongdo-gu, and Nam-gu districts saying, “A fire broke out at the 55th Supply Station in Dong-gu, with a lot of smoke. Dust is scattered everywhere.” Therefore, nearby residents should pay attention to window monitoring and safety incidents. ”

According to Yonhap News Agency, a fire broke out at Supply Station 55 in Beomil-dong, Dong-gu, Busan at 6:31 p.m. Supply Station 55 is a U.S. military facility used to store equipment brought in by U.S. troops through the Port of Busan.

The fire currently engulfs a large warehouse measuring approximately 120 meters (394 feet) by 40 meters (131 feet).

Construction materials were reportedly found inside the warehouse.

Yonhap News Agency reported that the fire was above the warehouse, but no casualties were reported.

The Busan Fire Department is working to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby warehouses. The Ministry of Defense said 51 pieces of equipment and 163 personnel were involved in the operation.