A fire broke out at the National Hangeul Museum of Korea in Seoul on Saturday, which showcases the history of the Korean alphabet. The blaze started around 8:40 a.m. (2340 GMT) on the museum’s rooftop, according to the local district office in central Seoul. Thick, dark smoke billowed from the building as the fire intensified, creating dramatic scenes captured on TV footage.
While no information on casualties was immediately available, local broadcaster YTN reported that one firefighter was hospitalized. Authorities urged nearby residents to keep their windows closed and avoid the area. The Yongsan district office issued an emergency text message with these instructions.
The National Hangeul Museum, located in central Seoul, is home to invaluable artifacts and materials related to the Korean alphabet, which was first created in 1443.