In the spring of 2025, Togat Village in Wonrim 2-ri, Andong, Gyeongbuk, was devastated by a massive wildfire that wiped out the entire community. Displaced residents lived in temporary housing, gathering at the village hall to focus on recovery. The youth photography club ‘Localgraphy May’ began regular visits, building close relationships with the elderly and sharing in the pain of disaster. Their ongoing presence helped residents open up, fostering a sense of community and mutual support.
The wildfire on March 22, 2025, scorched 99,289 hectares across five counties: Uiseong, Andong, Cheongsong, Yeongyang, and Yeongdeok. While Togat Village suffered severe damage, there were no casualties. The government provided temporary shelters, and about 40 residents returned to the village hall to live and work together on restoration. The Ministry of the Interior and Safety launched the ‘Wildfire Disaster Area Youth Community Revitalization Project’ in September 2025, selecting ten youth teams for support. Localgraphy May assisted with evacuee support, disaster documentation, village maintenance, and psychological and cultural programs, greatly aiding recovery.
Activists Minji Choi and Jaegak Lee, along with Localgraphy May members, initially approached residents cautiously, sharing meals and gradually building trust. Village leader Soonja Cho expressed gratitude for the youth’s consistent visits. The team organized photo shoots and drawing sessions, helping elders recreate memories of lost homes and documenting the recovery process. These activities provided healing and brightened the village atmosphere. An exhibition showcased residents’ stories, allowing them to see their experiences recognized.
The connection between Localgraphy May and Togat Village went beyond documentation, forming a meaningful bond. Minji Choi emphasized the importance of ongoing public interest in the village’s story to prevent the wildfire tragedy from being forgotten. The youth plan to continue recording and exhibiting recovery efforts in 2026, even after the official project ends. Their work presents a new model for community recovery and highlights the vital role of youth in disaster response.