On February 13, 2025, an explosion at the Shin Kong Mitsukoshi Department Store in Taichung City, Taiwan, left four people dead and at least 26 others injured, raising concerns over safety regulations during construction work. The gas explosion occurred around 11:30 AM local time, predominantly affecting the 12th floor of the busy department store, which temporarily housed renovation activities.
Eyewitness accounts revealed the violent force of the explosion, which sent debris and shattered glass onto the streets below. Zhang Meina, who lived nearby, recounted the moment vividly: "I thought a war had started. The sound was louder than dozens of firecrackers." Despite the chaos, officials confirmed no Japanese citizens were among the injured, as reported by the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association.
Officials are investigating the cause of the explosion, with initial findings indicating it may stem from damage to gas pipes due to the renovation work occurring on the same floor. Takao Sakaguchi, the former head of the Azabu Fire Department, commented on the technical aspects, stating, "The explosion likely resulted from damage to gas pipes during construction, which caused leakage and possibly ignited due to sparks. There was no fire visible, indicating the gas may have ignited without flames initially, rapidly increasing pressure and causing the explosion."
According to authorities, the affected area was mainly around the food court, which was closed at the time of the explosion. Fortunately, no one was inside the food court, which likely limited the potential for even greater casualties. Nevertheless, the incident has raised alarming safety concerns about the practices and protocols followed during building renovations and gas line maintenance.
The explosion has also drawn attention due to the prominence of the Shin Kong Mitsukoshi brand, which is partially owned by Japan’s Mitsukoshi Isetan Holdings. Given the department store's high-profile status, the incident has sparked widespread public fear about safety and the adequacy of current building codes.
Local officials and the police have cordoned off the area to conduct thorough investigations. Videos circulating on social media captured the moment the explosion shattered windows, sending large particles flying across the sidewalk, which posed significant danger to pedestrians.
Signs of the aftermath are visible, with considerable debris littering the streets and emergency services working diligently to gather information and assist those affected. Explaining the immediate response, one fire department official stated, "Our primary concern is ensuring the safety of both victims and the general public, as well as determining the exact cause to prevent future occurrences."
The department store's management has expressed its condolences to the victims and their families, promising full cooperation with the investigation. "We are continuing to gather information," said the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association. They reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all their patrons, reflecting the gravity of the situation.
This incident not only highlights the alarming potential risks associated with construction and renovation work but also raises questions about regulatory oversight. Public sentiment is shifting as inhabitants call for stricter safety measures and transparent investigations to avoid such tragedies.
While the immediate impact remains stark, the long-term effects of the explosion on familial lives, community trust, and business at Shin Kong Mitsukoshi will surely take time to assess. Following these tragic events, one thing is certain: safety must remain the foremost priority as Taiwan navigates the aftermath of this horrific explosion.