Man accused of setting fire to Line 5 subway train indicted for attempted murder, arson

Prosecutors indicted the man accused of setting fire to a subway train on Seoul Subway Line 5 in May, putting the lives of over 160 passengers at risk, on charges of attempted murder and arson.

The Seoul Southern District Prosecutors’ Office’s task force handling the arson case said Wednesday it indicted the 67-year-old, surnamed Won, on charges of attempted murder, arson causing injury on a train in operation, and violation of the Railroad Safety Act. He remains in custody.

Won allegedly poured gasoline on the floor of a moving train and set fire to a piece of clothing near the tunnel between Yeouinaru and Mapo stations at around 8:42 a.m. on May 31. The incident injured six passengers and endangered the lives of around 160 others on board.

The blaze caused smoke inhalation injuries to 23 people, including Won, who were taken to the hospital. An additional 129 people received medical attention at the scene. One train car was partially destroyed, and damages are estimated at 330 million won ($242,400).

Read more: Korea JoongAng Daily