Drunk 20s Caught Driving Stolen Car 130km Round Trip, Arrested on the Spot

Mr. A stated, "I suddenly wanted to drive, so I drove."

[Asia Economy Reporter Oh Gyumin] A man in his 20s who stole a truck parked by the roadside and drove 130km while intoxicated was caught by the police.

Seoul Dongjak Police Station arrested university student A (23) at around 4 a.m. on the 6th on charges including drunk driving under the Road Traffic Act and is investigating him without detention.

A is accused of stealing and driving a 1-ton truck owned by a nearby construction worker from the roadside near the National Cemetery in Dongjak-gu, Seoul, while heavily intoxicated.

According to the police, the truck was parked in front of the safety zone of the National Cemetery with the key left in the driver's seat. It was revealed that A drove the truck back and forth 130km to Eulwangri, Incheon, within an hour.

A returned to the National Cemetery and was caught on the spot by the owner, who apprehended him as a criminal in the act. At the time of arrest, A's blood alcohol concentration was reported to be at the license cancellation level (0.08% or higher).

During the police investigation, A stated, "As I was passing by the National Cemetery, I suddenly felt like driving, so I pulled the door of the parked vehicle, and when it opened, I drove it," and "I was intoxicated and forgot that it was theft."

He further explained the reason for returning to the crime scene, saying, "I felt I should return the car."

The police are reportedly considering changing the theft charge to unauthorized use of a vehicle, as A appears willing to return the truck.