Fire authorities are investigating the possibility that a fire that broke out at the Hanyang Apartment complex in Apgujeong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, at 10:27 a.m. yesterday (July 21) may have started from a robot vacuum cleaner.

According to media reports, the Gangnam Fire Station is conducting an on-site investigation, considering the possibility of an electrical cause, including checking whether any home appliances inside the unit ignited.

It has been reported that a resident, believed to be living in the affected unit, told reporters at the scene that they saw flames originating from a robot vacuum cleaner.

An official from the Gangnam Fire Station stated, "We will only know the exact cause after an investigation. As of now, the cause of ignition has not been confirmed."

During a fire at the Eunma Apartment complex in Daechi-dong last February, a resident also initially spotted flames on a dining table. However, investigation results later suggested it was highly likely that the fire originated from wiring within the ceiling before falling into the kitchen.

Due to yesterday's fire, about 20 residents of the Hanyang Apartment complex evacuated on their own to locations such as a senior citizens' center, while three people who remained in the building were rescued by responding firefighters.

A woman in her 70s complained of dizziness due to smoke inhalation, but it was reported that her life was not in danger.

There were no other casualties.

Fire authorities deployed 36 vehicles and 133 personnel, bringing the main blaze under control in about 20 minutes and fully extinguishing the fire at 12:04 p.m.

The fire department is currently investigating the circumstances of the fire and calculating the extent of the damage.