'Subway Line 5 Arsonist' Admits Charges in First Trial... "Reflecting on Wrong Actions"

[Financial News] A man in his 60s who set fire inside Seoul Subway Line 5 admitted all charges in his first trial.
The Seoul Southern District Court's Criminal Division 15 (Chief Judge Yang Hwan-seung) held the first trial for Mr. Won (67), who was indicted on charges of attempted murder, arson causing injury on an existing train, and violation of the Railroad Safety Act.
On this day, Mr. Won's defense attorney stated, "We admit the charges," but argued, "It was attempted murder by indirect intent, not definite intent." The attorney added, "The defendant expressed his accumulated psychological isolation and anger over an unfair divorce ruling through the extreme and wrongful choice of arson," and claimed "he was in a state of diminished capacity."
Mr. Won also said, "I admit all guilt," and "I am reflecting on my wrongful actions."
However, the prosecution argued, "Considering the motive and means of the crime, there is a high risk of reoffending," and requested the court to order the attachment of a location tracking electronic device and probation for Mr. Won.
Mr. Won was brought to trial in custody on charges of attempting to kill 160 passengers by pouring flammable substances and setting fire inside a train running between Yeouinaru Station and Mapo Station on Line 5 at around 8:42 AM on May 31.
According to the prosecution, after losing a divorce lawsuit with his wife, Mr. Won developed a delusional belief that the unfavorable divorce ruling was an insult and attack against him, leading him to set fire to a subway used by many people.
After deciding to commit arson on the subway, Mr. Won pre-purchased 3.6 liters of gasoline and prepared a torch lighter. To avoid suspicion from the gas station owner, he disguised himself as a motorcyclist who ran out of fuel by wearing a helmet and paying for fuel in cash. It was also revealed that he disposed of all his assets, intending to die with the fire.
The day before the crime, he was found to have carried gasoline while riding Subway Lines 1, 2, and 4 alternately, passing through major subway stations in Seoul, looking for an opportunity to commit the crime. The prosecution believes he meticulously planned and executed the crime in advance.
Additionally, the prosecution judged that Mr. Won had the intent to kill, based on the fact that he targeted a time when the damage could be maximized, and despite the chaos caused by passengers falling during evacuation, he lit the gasoline with a lighter without regard.
The second trial for Mr. Won is scheduled to be held on the morning of September 16.



welcome@fnnews.com Jang Yu-ha Reporter