Many of the buildings at the temple complex, first built by monks in the year 681, burned to the ground this week as South Korea's largest wildfire ever swept through forests and towns, killing at least 26 people and destroying or damaging priceless cultural sites.

Wildfires in South Korea's southern regions have left 24 people dead and destroyed more than 300 structures, including large parts of an ancient Buddhist temple complex.

A historic temple in South Korea built over a thousand years ago now lies in charred, black ruins, a haunting contrast to the vibrant colours that typically adorn the country's historic palaces and Buddhist temples.