Man sets fire to moving train in Seoul over divorce from wife

In a shocking incident in Seoul, South Korea, a man set fire to a moving subway train in an apparent act of desperation following his divorce, putting the lives of passengers at serious risk.

According to reports, the suspect was identified as 67-year-old Won, who has now been formally indicted for his role in the incident that occurred on May 31, 2025. The blaze resulted in multiple injuries and extensive property damage.

The Seoul Southern District Prosecutors’ Office confirmed that Won faces several serious charges, including attempted murder, arson on a moving train, and violating the Railway Safety Act.

서울지하철 5호선 방화범 CCTV
사망자 없는게 기적이네요 pic.twitter.com/IQMowGZkWH

— 브이몬 (@XXV_mon) June 25, 2025

The fire broke out at 8:42 am on Seoul Metro Line 5, as the train was traveling through an undersea tunnel between Yeouinaru and Mapo stations.

According to investigators, the suspect poured gasoline inside the train and ignited a piece of clothing to start the fire.

The blaze led to 22 passengers being hospitalised with breathing difficulties, while 129 others received emergency treatment at the scene. The suspect himself was later hospitalised after his health deteriorated.

Authorities estimate the financial damage caused by the fire at 330 million won (approximately $240,000). Investigators say that Won was deeply distressed over the outcome of his divorce proceedings, which may have motivated the attack.

He was taken into custody on June 9 and has since been handed over to the prosecutors. Officials stated that steps are being taken to assess the security failures and ensure such acts cannot be repeated in the future.