A 67-year-old Korean man, surnamed Won, is facing massive backlash after committing arson inside a crowded Seoul subway train. The shocking CCTV footage, released June 25, shows Won pouring gasoline inside the train on Line No. 5 and setting it ablaze while passengers scrambled for safety.
The attack endangered over 100 passengers. More than 20 were hospitalized, 120 received emergency treatment. Six passengers sustained significant injuries, and 23 people—including Won—were hospitalized for smoke inhalation.
Won is charged with 160 counts of attempted murder tied to identified passengers. Prosecutors are treating the case as terrorism. They claim Won targeted the train deliberately to gain public attention.
After a psychological evaluation, Won showed extreme self-centeredness and delusional thinking. The court revealed he sparked the fire after being upset over a divorce lawsuit outcome.
Passengers who used fire-resistant materials to suppress flames played a critical role in preventing a bigger disaster.
Prosecutors on Won’s motives: _“He intentionally targeted the subway train for maximum public attention.”_
On passengers’ reactions: _“Some passengers who acted quickly to use fire-resistant materials in the train to suppress the flames played a key role in preventing a larger tragedy.”_
The case is ongoing as Seoul District Court processes the charges. The eerie footage shows Won calmly walking away after setting the fire, leaving netizens rattled.
