South Korean building fire claims 29 lives

Jecheon [South Korea], Dec 22 (ANI): At least 29 persons have been killed and several others got injured in a major blaze at an eight-story building in the central South Korean city of Jecheon.

The death toll is likely to increase as rescue operation is underway.

The building houses a fitness center, restaurants and a public sauna, reported South Korean news agency Yonhap. Most of the victims were trapped in a sauna on the second floor.

The fire, which is majorly extinguished now, is believed to have started in the building's parking garage.

Some 20 persons have been rescued from the rooftop.

About 49 fire engines and trucks as well as 60 firefighters were sent to the scene, in addition with two firefighter helicopters, the news agency reported. (ANI)

This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI