Man in his 60s arrested for suspected arson on Seoul subway Hundreds evacuated

A man in his 60s was apprehended on May 31 for allegedly setting a fire aboard a subway train in central Seoul, prompting the emergency evacuation of over 400 passengers through a tunnel, authorities said.

According to police and eyewitnesses, the suspect boarded a Line No. 5 subway train with a lighter-type torch and a fuel container and ignited pieces of clothing around 8:47 a.m. local time (03:00 GMT+4), as the train traveled between Yeouinaru and Mapo stations, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

Panic ensued as thick smoke filled the train, forcing passengers to evacuate onto the tracks. At least 21 people were taken to hospital for smoke inhalation and other minor injuries, including a fractured ankle. No life-threatening injuries have been reported.

Quick action by passengers and the train conductor helped contain the flames using fire extinguishers. The fire was fully extinguished by emergency personnel at approximately 10:24 a.m. (05:24 GMT+4).

Emergency responders, including 230 firefighters and police officers, were dispatched to the scene. Subway services between Yeouido and Aeogae stations were temporarily suspended.

The suspect was arrested near Yeouinaru Station after briefly fleeing the scene. Police said they will investigate the motive and conduct a forensic examination of the subway car.

By Sabina Mammadli