20180227 Fire destroys popular Itaewon pub
Korea Feb 27 2018 “Office bldg.”
Dead : dead 0 or unknown Burnout : 1 to 29 Injured : injured 0 or unknown
Fire destroys popular Itaewon pub
Updated: 2018-02-27 18:35
A fire completely gutted the popular expat bar and restaurant Bull & Barrel last Wednesday night, casting doubt over future operation.
The blaze started in the kitchen. Staff attempted to extinguish the fire, but had to evacuate the building and call 119.
“The fire started as a result of a malfunction in one of the fryers,” owner Chad Murphy said.
“The oil ignited and my staff tried their best to put it out with fire extinguishers, but it wasn’t enough so we had to call 119. I got everybody out of there no problem. The fire was still small at this point.”
On arriving, firefighters were informed of the small oil fire in the kitchen, but as a result of using high-powered hoses, the fire spread to the floor.
“Everything in the bar was melted or burned. So much water was used there was about 12 centimeters of water on the floor after the fire went out, and it was leaking heavily on the downstairs clothing shops.”
With extensive damage to the building and no immediate plans to reopen, employees have been advised to seek other jobs.
“I’m still not sure what my next plans are. There’s so much work to be done to rebuild that floor,” Murphy said.
“The staff are all in shock, but I’m sure they’ll move on a lot more easily than me. I don’t think it’s best for them to wait for me to rebuild.”
The Bull & Barrel was on three floors, including a rooftop garden. It was established in 2012.
Web Source: Korea Times
http://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2018/02/113_244825.html