On March 16, 2025, a devastating fire broke out at the Pulse nightclub in Kočani, North Macedonia, resulting in 59 fatalities and injuring over 155 individuals. The incident occurred during a performance by the local hip-hop duo DNK, whose on-stage pyrotechnics ignited the club's highly flammable ceiling materials, leading to a rapid spread of the fire.

The venue was overcrowded, with approximately 1,500 attendees—triple its legal capacity—including many teenagers. The ensuing panic caused a chaotic stampede toward the club's limited exits, exacerbating the casualty count.

Tragically, three members of DNK were among the deceased. Additionally, 25-year-old professional soccer player Andrej Lazarov lost his life while attempting to rescue others from the blaze.

Investigations have revealed that the Pulse nightclub was operating without a proper license and had multiple safety violations, including inadequate emergency exits and fire suppression systems. Authorities have issued arrest warrants for over 20 individuals, detaining 15 so far, including government officials and the club's management, on suspicions of corruption and bribery related to the club's operation.

In response to the tragedy, North Macedonia's government has declared a seven-day period of national mourning and initiated emergency inspections of similar venues across the country to prevent future incidents.

This incident stands as the deadliest nightclub fire in North Macedonia's history and has drawn comparisons to other tragic nightclub fires in Europe, highlighting the critical need for stringent safety protocols and enforcement.