At least 27 people have died in what have grown into the largest wildfires in South Korea's history. Most of those who have lost their lives were in their 60s and 70s - in other words, those who struggled to escape the fast-moving infernos.

Uprecedented wildfires ripping through South Korea’s southern regions have destroyed large parts of an ancient Buddhist temple, ruining two of its three state-designated “treasures.”.

Charred, black ruins at South Korea's Gounsa temple stood on Thursday in stark contrast to the kaleidoscope of colours that are a trademark of the country's historic palaces and Buddhist temples. Many of the buildings at the temple complex,