South Koreans Mourn Historic Temple Burned Down by Wildfire

At Least 27 Killed, Priceless Cultural Sites Ruined as Country's Largest Wildfire Spreads

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ANDONG, South Korea - Charred, black ruins at South Korea's Gounsa temple stood on March 27 in stark contrast to the kaleidoscope of colors that are a trademark of the country's historic palaces and Buddhist temples.

Many of the buildings at the temple complex, first built by monks in the year 681, burned to the ground earlier this week as South Korea's largest wildfire ever swept through forests and towns, killing at least 27 people and destroying or damaging priceless cultural sites.

"There was a wind stronger than a typhoon, and flames whipped through the air like a tornado, burning the whole area in an instant," Gounsa temple chief Deungwoon told Reuters.

"The buildings and remains of what Buddhist monks have left over 1,300 years are now all gone."