2026 Daejeon factory fire

The factory was operated by Anjun Industrial, a manufacturer of engine valves supplying major automakers including Hyundai and Kia.^[1][3] The company employed around 350 workers, with approximately 170 people reported to be inside the building at the time of the fire.^[1][2] The three-storey facility stored hazardous materials, including around 200 kg (440 lb) of sodium, a highly reactive substance that can explode when exposed to water.^[1][2]

The fire began on the first floor of the factory at approximately 13:17 KST. and rapidly spread to the upper floors.^[2] Witnesses reported hearing an explosion prior to the blaze, although the exact cause remained under investigation. Video footage from the scene showed thick black smoke rising from the building, while some workers attempted to escape by jumping from windows. According to fire officials, the fire spread so quickly that many workers were forced to evacuate before emergency responders arrived.^[1] Firefighting efforts were complicated by the presence of sodium, delaying the use of water until the material could be safely removed.^[1][2] More than 500 firefighters, police officers, and emergency personnel were deployed, along with firefighting helicopters and unmanned robots used to access dangerous areas and cool the structure.^[1] The fire was brought under control late on 20 March and fully extinguished the following day.^[1][3]

Fourteen people were confirmed dead in the fire, with all initially reported missing individuals later accounted for.^[1][2] Many of the victims were discovered on the upper floors, including nine in a third-floor space used as a gym locker room.^[1][3] Some victims were severely burned, requiring DNA testing for identification.^[1] Injuries totaled 60, including both serious and minor cases, with causes including smoke inhalation and injuries sustained while escaping the building.^[3][1]