Korea Marine Corps personnel are deployed on fire extinguishing operations in Yeongdeok, North Gyeongsang Province, Friday. Yonhap

The devastating wildfires that swept across the southeastern region since last week are fully contained as of Friday 5 p.m. after 149 hours of firefighting operations, according to forest authorities.

The fire that started in Uiseong, North Gyeongsang Province, on March 21 had spread rapidly to neighboring cities and counties with strong winds and dry weather, killing at least 28 and displacing more than 33,000 residents.

The nation lost some 48,000 hectares of forest, equivalent to 80 percent of the size of Seoul, or 63,245 football stadiums.

This is far greater than the 23,794 hectares damaged by the east coast wildfires in 2000, which had been the worst in the country's history.

Mountains in Uiseong, North Gyeongsang Province, remain scorched, Friday, after 94 percent of the wildfires that razed the southeastern region were contained. Yonhap

The cooler temperatures from the overnight rain helped firefighters, as strong winds subsided, the Korea Forest Service (KFS) said.

Firefighters have put out some 94 percent of the blaze as of Friday noon, significantly higher than 63 percent from Thursday afternoon.

Some 5,580 personnel, 86 helicopters and 569 fire trucks were deployed in the firefighting operations.

Meanwhile, the blaze in the Jirisan National Park in Sancheong, South Gyeongsang Province, continues to spread and remains 94 percent contained as of Friday 7 p.m.

Forest authorities have deployed 43 helicopters to put out remaining fires, including four from the U.S. Forces Korea and 13 from the Korean military.

Acting President Han Duck-soo visited the affected area in Andong, North Gyeongsang Province, on Friday and said, "The government will provide all resources and administrative support available until the damage from the wildfires is addressed."

Wildflowers bloom on a burned mountain in Yeongdeok, Gyeongsang Province, Friday, after wildfires razed the southeastern region. Yonhap

Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of State expressed condolences for the devastating wildfires in Korea.

"The United States offers our sincere condolences to the people of the Republic of Korea for the tragic loss of life and the extensive damage caused by ongoing wildfires in the southeastern region," Tammy Bruce, department spokesperson, said in a statement on Thursday.

"The deadly wildfires have not only claimed lives but also destroyed homes and historic sites. America stands with its ally during this difficult time. United States Forces Korea also stands ready to provide assistance to help combat the fires and support the affected communities.

"We mourn the loss of the brave firefighters and many others who have died. Our thoughts are with their families, the displaced individuals, and all those seeking refuge during this tragic time.

"Our nation has not forgotten the Republic of Korea's unwavering support during the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles and Hawaii. Just as you have stood with us, we will stand with you," the statement said.