SOUTH KOREA: South Korea recently witnessed two successive stabbing incidents, raising concerns among citizens about safety.
In the first attack on August 3 in Seongnam, Seoul, a man crashed his car into pedestrians, entered a department store, and carried out a stabbing spree, leaving 14 injured and one woman dead.
This comes after a July 21 incident where another attacker killed one person and injured three in the city.
Despite South Korea’s historically low violent crime rates, recent stabbings have sparked worries. Some citizens liken the situation to becoming less safe than before.
The police have classified these seemingly random acts of violence as “Abnormal Motive Crimes,” known colloquially as “Mudjima crimes,” emphasizing their seriousness.
Experts attribute these incidents to societal pressures, including mental health stigma, lack of support services, and uncertain housing and career prospects.
Police have detained individuals based on suspicious behavior, but public fear persists, prompting more people to carry mace sprays and exercise caution in crowded areas.
The rise in violent acts has spurred discussions about stricter criminal laws, lower criminal responsibility, and improved police tactics.
Lawmakers are debating tougher penalties for large-scale stabbings, while citizens call for thorough investigations and police efforts to prevent copycat crimes.
While South Korea’s violent crime rates have been decreasing overall, these incidents highlight the need for addressing underlying social issues.
Also Read: Rising Death Toll in South Korea Floods: President Yoon Points Finger at Failed Responses
