Exploding batteries spark deadly S Korea factory fire

A massive fire at a factory in South Korea has resulted in the deaths of at least 22 people. The fire began after several lithium batteries exploded at the Aricell plant in Hwaseong city, located about 45km south of Seoul, the capital of South Korea. Firefighters worked for several hours to extinguish the blaze using dry sand, as water could exacerbate the fire due to the chemical nature of lithium batteries. The fire caused part of the roof to collapse, and local television footage showed large clouds of smoke and small explosions as firefighters battled the flames. South Korea is a major producer of lithium batteries, which are used in various products, including electric vehicles and laptops. Fire official Kim Jin-young confirmed that 18 Chinese, one Laotian, and two South Korean workers were among the deceased. One more body has yet to be identified, and there are concerns that at least one more person may be missing. Mr. Kim stated that most of the bodies are badly burned, making identification a time-consuming process. Additionally, eight people were injured, with two sustaining serious injuries. Approximately 100 workers were present when the fire broke out. The Aricell factory housed an estimated 35,000 battery cells on its second floor, where the batteries were inspected and packaged. Mr. Kim explained that the fire started when a series of battery cells exploded, although the exact cause of the initial explosions remains unclear. He noted that it was challenging to enter the site initially due to fears of additional explosions. Lithium batteries are prone to exploding if they are damaged or overheated. Once the fire took hold, it spread rapidly, leaving workers with little time to escape. Kim Jae-ho, a professor of fire and disaster prevention at Daejeon University, explained that battery materials such as nickel are highly flammable. He added that fires caused by these materials often leave little time for response. Firefighters had to use dry sand to extinguish the blaze, which took several hours to bring under control. However, there remains a risk that the fire could reignite without warning due to the ongoing chemical reaction.