Camilla Jessen
A 67-year-old man ignited a fire inside a crowded subway car in Seoul.
On the morning of May 31, 2025, a routine commute turned into a scene of panic when a man identified by his surname Won boarded a Seoul Metro Line 5 train between Yeouinaru and Mapo stations.
Carrying a container of gasoline and a torch lighter, Won poured the flammable liquid onto the floor of the fourth car and ignited it, causing flames and smoke to engulf the carriage.
According to Digi24, approximately 400 passengers were forced to evacuate through the tunnel, with 23 individuals hospitalized for smoke inhalation and minor injuries. An additional 129 passengers received on-site treatment.
Following his arrest at Yeouinaru Station, Won confessed to the arson, stating that his actions were driven by dissatisfaction with the outcome of his divorce case.
He admitted to purchasing the gasoline two weeks prior with the intent to commit the act.
During a pretrial detention hearing, Won expressed remorse, saying, “I’m sorry,” but declined to elaborate further on his motives.
The quick actions of passengers and train staff were instrumental in preventing a more severe disaster.
Fire extinguishers were used to contain the blaze before emergency services arrived. The fire was fully extinguished within 20 minutes, and subway services resumed shortly thereafter.
The incident caused an estimated 330 million won (approximately $240,000) in damages.
Won faces charges of arson causing injury, a serious offense under South Korean law that could result in life imprisonment.
The Seoul Transportation Corporation is considering legal action to seek compensation for the damages incurred.
