EPAThe 56-year-old man is being investigated in South Korea for allegedly starting a fatal wildfire that killed 30 people.
The unnamed man was then performing ancestor rituals by family graves on the hills of West County, North Yangsan Province.
He is booked – but not arrested – and is called to ask questions once the site’s investigation is complete. He denies the charge.
On Sunday, officials said the main fire was ultimately in full control – 10 days after it began, causing extensive damage to the building, including the historic temple.
Investigators reportedly spoke to the suspect’s daughter. He is said to have told them that the fire began when his father tried to burn a tree branch hanging on the grave with a cigarette lighter.
The fire then burned more than 48,000 hectares, which amounted to about 80% of the capital’s area, according to the South Korean Forest Service.
They also destroyed an estimated 4,000 structures, including homes, factories and many national treasures.
The Goun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was one of the structures that were destroyed by flames. Built on AD618, it was one of the largest in the state.
Most of the victims were people in their 60s and 70s.
The main fires are under control, but small fires continue to reignite, authorities say.
The fire, fueled by strong, dry winds, spread to several cities and counties.
The area’s unseasonably warm climate, dry conditions and pine forests also exacerbated the fire.
An investigation will be conducted next week, including police, fire officials and forest management.
South Korean foreman Han Dak Saw said the government will provide financial support to those chased by the fire.
