Seoul, South Korea – A recent nationwide fire safety inspection of underground parking lots in apartment complexes has revealed a concerning number of violations, the National Fire Agency announced today.

Over a three-month period, inspectors from 19 provincial fire departments conducted unannounced checks at thousands of apartment complexes. The inspections focused on compliance with fire safety regulations, including the proper functioning of sprinklers and other safety equipment.

The results of the inspection were alarming. Out of the 5,447 complexes inspected, 876 were found to have violated fire safety regulations, resulting in a total of 1,312 violations. Common violations included malfunctioning sprinklers, tampered fire alarms, and blocked emergency exits.

To address these issues, the fire agency has issued fines for 62 of the most serious violations and ordered corrective actions for 1,245 others. Additionally, the agency has reported five cases to relevant authorities for further investigation.

In an effort to prevent future incidents, the fire agency has launched a public awareness campaign aimed at educating building managers and residents about fire safety. The campaign includes the distribution of self-inspection checklists, fire safety consultations, and the promotion of a mobile app that helps residents create evacuation plans.

"We urge apartment building officials and residents to prioritize fire safety and to conduct regular self-inspections," said Hong Young-geun, director-general of the Fire Prevention Bureau at the National Fire Agency. "By taking these simple steps, we can significantly reduce the risk of fire and protect lives and property."