Fire Reported at 2:43 p.m., Taean Plant Evacuated At 2:43 p.m. on 9 December 2025, fire and a loud explosion were reported at the Taean Thermal Power Plant in Taean County, about 140 km southwest of Seoul [1][2][3]. Authorities immediately ordered evacuation of the plant’s staff and dispatched fire‑fighting units to the scene. The blaze was brought under control roughly one hour after the initial report [1].

Two Workers Suffer Second‑Degree Burns Two plant workers sustained second‑degree burns and were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment [1][2][3]. Medical officials said the injuries were not life‑threatening. No additional casualties were reported, and the evacuated workforce remained on standby pending safety clearance [1].

Gas Explosion Suspected in IGCC Facility Police and fire investigators suspect a gas explosion on the first floor of the integrated gasification combined‑cycle (IGCC) unit triggered the fire [1][2]. Initial evidence points to a failure in the IGCC piping system, though the exact cause will be determined after the site is fully examined [1]. The investigation will also compare this incident with a similar fire that affected the same IGCC facility in January 2023 [1].

Plant’s Coal‑Fired Operations and IGCC History The Taean plant is a coal‑fired power station that includes an IGCC unit commissioned in 2016 [3]. The IGCC facility previously experienced a fire in 2023, prompting heightened scrutiny of its safety protocols [1]. Its coastal location on South Korea’s western shore makes rapid emergency response feasible [3].

Emergency Response Contained Blaze Within an Hour Firefighters deployed hoses and foam to suppress the flames, achieving containment about an hour after arrival [1]. The plant remained evacuated while crews completed extinguishing operations and secured the area. Authorities announced that the situation was under control and that a formal cause analysis would follow [1][2].