Incheon Coupang logistics center fire: Batteries, multi-taps collected as investigators seek cause

South Korean authorities are conducting a joint investigation into the cause of a fire that engulfed a Coupang logistics center in Incheon. Police and fire officials are meticulously examining the 6th-floor storage area, identified as the likely origin of the blaze, and have collected approximately eight packs of evidence, including batteries and multi-taps.

Investigators are focusing on potential electrical faults or battery malfunctions as the primary causes of the fire. "We have collected numerous items suspected to be ignition sources and have begun analysis," stated Lee Ki-yeol, head of the fire investigation unit at the National Forensic Service. The collected evidence, including household appliances with charging batteries and packaged multi-taps, has been sent for detailed examination.

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We have collected numerous items suspected to be ignition sources and have begun analysis.

The investigation faces challenges due to the severe damage caused by the fire, including a "flashover" phenomenon that rapidly consumed the facility. Much of the plastic material has been destroyed, leaving only small amounts of metal, batteries, and wires. Fire officials plan to cross-reference the collected debris with a list of items stored in the warehouse provided by Coupang.

Further inquiries will address the effectiveness of the initial firefighting efforts and the operational status of the building's fire safety systems. While sprinklers at the ignition point were found to be open, the functionality of systems on other floors is under review. Several fire extinguishers were found, but their actual use is still being confirmed due to severe oxidation. Authorities have also requested CCTV footage and system logs from Coupang and are questioning company officials regarding the initial response.

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The collected evidence includes household appliances with charging batteries and packaged multi-taps.