In brief
In a devastating event on Monday morning, a fire broke out in a 21-story apartment complex in southern Seoul, resulting in one fatality and 11 injuries. The inferno erupted at approximately 8:17 a.m. in the Bongcheon district, and eyewitnesses documented smoke pouring from the fourth floor of the high-rise. Firefighters managed to control the flames after around an hour of battling the blaze.
Tragically, one individual succumbed to injuries sustained from the fire, while two elderly residents, both women in their 70s and 80s, severely injured themselves during a desperate escape from the fire by falling from a height. Additional injuries reported predominantly concerned respiratory problems due to smoke inhalation.The investigation, led by the Gwanak district police, has identified a male suspect, reportedly in his 60s, who allegedly initiated the fire using a pesticide sprayer filled with a flammable substance. Authorities are actively seeking the public's help in locating this individual as they continue their inquiries into this calamity that has shaken the local community.Choe Sang-Hun contributes to this coverage as a prominent reporter for The Times based in Seoul, specializing in both South and North Korean affairs.
