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Seoul fire authorities logo file photo. / Courtesy of Yonhap News

A fire broke out at a residential villa in Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul, claiming the lives of two elementary school siblings.

According to fire authorities on July 9, the blaze began around 10:57 p.m. the previous night on the third floor of a four-story villa—comprising three floors above ground and one basement level—in Galhyeon-dong, Eunpyeong-gu. Two victims, a boy and a girl in their elementary school years, received emergency first aid on-site and were rushed to a nearby hospital, but were ultimately pronounced dead. It was confirmed that no other family members were at home when the fire broke out.

Fire authorities responded to a report stating that a fire had erupted following the sound of an explosion. Deploying 82 personnel and 23 vehicles, firefighters completely extinguished the flames by 11:47 p.m., approximately 50 minutes after the initial response.

Additionally, two other residents received treatment for smoke inhalation, while nine individuals managed to evacuate the building on their own.

Fire officials are currently investigating to determine the exact cause of the fire.

                                                                                                            Choi Min-jun