Deadly Arson Fire In Seoul Apartment Leaves One Dead

A tragic fire erupted in a 21-story apartment building in Bongcheon-dong, Gwanak-gu, Seoul, on April 21, 2025, resulting in one death and multiple injuries. The fire, which was reported at 8:17 AM, is suspected to have been deliberately set using a pesticide sprayer.

According to police reports, a 60-year-old man, identified as the arsonist, was found dead on the fourth floor of the building. His body was located in the hallway between units 403 and 404. The man reportedly left a note at his residence stating "I'm sorry, Mom," along with 50,000 won, designated for hospital bills, indicating a possible motive tied to personal distress.

Witnesses described the chaotic scene as residents rushed to escape the flames and thick smoke. One resident, Yoon Jung, who lives on the sixth floor, recounted, "I thought it was a missile explosion. It was that loud!" Another resident, Kim Kyung-hwa, aged 77, expressed relief that the incident did not occur at night, saying, "If it had been at night, many residents would have been asleep and could have suffered greatly. The smoke filled the entire building, and the smell was overwhelming."

As the fire spread, emergency services were alerted, and a Stage 1 response was initiated, deploying 63 fire trucks and 153 personnel to the scene. The fire was extinguished by 9:54 AM, approximately one hour and 40 minutes after it began. In total, 13 individuals suffered injuries, including severe burns and smoke inhalation, with two women in their 70s and 80s being rescued from the fourth floor.

Authorities suspect that the man used a pesticide sprayer filled with gasoline to ignite the fire. Police received an earlier report at 8:04 AM about a man using a fire extinguisher-like device at a villa approximately 1.5 kilometers away from the apartment. This incident, which occurred just 15 minutes before the apartment fire, is believed to be connected to the same individual.

Forensic investigators are currently examining the scene for further evidence. They have confirmed that the fingerprints of the deceased match those of the suspected arsonist. The police are also reviewing CCTV footage from the area, which captured the man carrying an object resembling a fire extinguisher and possibly a gasoline container.

In the aftermath of the fire, the community has been left shaken. Residents reported hearing loud arguing from the vicinity of unit 404 just before the fire broke out, raising questions about the circumstances leading up to the incident. Some witnesses described the sound as similar to that of something exploding, contributing to the panic that ensued.

As investigations continue, the police are focused on determining the exact motive behind the arson. The connection between the two fires—one at the villa and the other at the apartment—remains under scrutiny, as officials seek to understand the full scope of the events that transpired on that fateful morning.

Fire Chief Han Jae-suk stated, "This was a tragic incident that has impacted many lives. We are working closely with the police to ensure that all aspects of the case are thoroughly investigated." As the community begins to recover, residents are left to grapple with the emotional and physical scars left by the fire.

The Bongcheon-dong fire serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of arson and the profound effects it can have on individuals and communities alike. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward.