Incheon Coupang Logistics Center Fire Continues After 38 Hours; 6th Floor Entry Under Review

Firefighters are still working to extinguish a blaze at a Coupang logistics center in Incheon, South Korea, more than 38 hours after it was first brought under control. While the initial alarm has been lifted and large equipment removed, the situation remains tense.

Crews are focusing water streams on the exterior of the building and ramp areas. Although the main flames are gone, residual heat and smoke continue to linger. Firefighters have not yet entered the 6th floor, believed to be the origin of the fire. Concerns about structural integrity have also arisen, with visible cracking and peeling on the 6th and 7th floor ceilings, leading safety experts to deem internal entry too risky for now.

"We are continuously pouring water inside to remove as much heat and smoke as possible," a fire official stated. "We are reviewing all options regarding whether and when firefighters can enter the building." Meanwhile, the 5th floor, where a large quantity of lithium batteries are stored, is under constant temperature surveillance as a precaution.

Previously, officials noted that intense radiant heat during the fire caused fire shutters to melt and fire compartmentation to fail, significantly hindering firefighting efforts. The large fire at the Coupang logistics center in Seoknam-dong, Seo-gu, Incheon, was initially declared under control on July 20. Some national firefighting mobilization orders were lifted, leading to the withdrawal of specialized equipment and a less crowded scene near the site. However, road closures around the facility remain in effect due to ongoing safety assessments.

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We are continuously pouring water inside to remove as much heat and smoke as possible. We are reviewing all options regarding whether and when firefighters can enter the building.