South Korean Man in His 60s Sets Fire on Subway, Passengers Flee in Panic
A fire incident occurred on Seoul's Line 5 subway on May 31, where a man in his 60s allegedly ignited gasoline inside a moving train, injuring 23 people and necessitating medical treatment for about 130 others. The fire broke out in the tunnel between the Yeouido and Mapo stations, with smoke quickly filling the carriage, causing passengers to rush toward the doors in panic. Eyewitnesses described the scene as akin to a stampede.
On June 2, a South Korean court ordered the detention of the suspect, citing significant risks to public safety and a high likelihood of reoffending. The suspect admitted that he planned the act due to dissatisfaction with the outcome of his divorce proceedings.
