Fire at Daejeon Auto Parts Factory Injures 50, Triggers National Emergency

A fire broke out at an automobile parts manufacturing plant in Munpyeong-dong, Daedeok-gu, Daejeon, at approximately 1:17 p.m. on the 20th.

The National Fire Agency issued a Level 1 response nine minutes after receiving the initial report, followed by a Level 2 response 14 minutes later. As concerns mounted over potential mass casualties, authorities issued a national firefighting mobilization order at 1:53 p.m.

Fire authorities have deployed approximately 70 pieces of equipment and 240 personnel to battle the blaze.

As of 2:30 p.m., authorities confirmed 50 injuries, including 35 serious and 15 minor. Concerns are growing that the casualty toll may rise, as some individuals may remain missing inside the building.

Fire authorities plan to conduct a search of the building's interior after fully extinguishing the fire to determine whether anyone is missing and to investigate the exact extent of damage and cause of the fire.