Video: Stressed Over Divorce, 67-Year-Old South Korean Man Sets Seoul Metro Coach On Fire

The Seoul Southern District Prosecutors' Office recently released harrowing CCTV footage showing a man pouring gasoline on a moving subway train before igniting it. The incident occurred on Seoul Subway Line 5, which was carrying approximately 160 passengers at the time.

According to reports, the attack took place on 31 May. The disturbing video shows the suspect spreading flammable liquid across the carriage floor, triggering immediate panic among passengers who fled to safety.

Horrific footage from a subway in Seoul shows a man on a metro train pouring a flammable substance on the floor of the locomotive. A massive fire was then seen erupting.

Reports say nearly 20 passengers sustained burn injuries in the incident which happened about a month back.… pic.twitter.com/pYZulwYpXn

— Vani Mehrotra (@vani_mehrotra) June 27, 2025

Six passengers suffered burn injuries while 23 others, including the arsonist himself, required treatment for smoke inhalation. The fire caused an estimated 330 million won (£197,000) worth of damage to the train carriage.

The accused, identified only as Won, faces charges of attempted murder and arson. Police apprehended Won shortly after the incident. Investigators revealed he carried out the attack due to dissatisfaction with his divorce settlement outcome. The gasoline used in the attack had been purchased two weeks prior.

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Initially, police recommended arson charges related to injuries caused on public transport. However, prosecutors upgraded the charges to include attempted murder, emphasising the grave risk to passengers' lives.

A court authorised Won's detention on 2 June following a review of the evidence. The case continues to undergo judicial proceedings.