70-Year-Old Man Dies After Self-Immolation Visiting Ex-Partner Following Stalking Report

[Asia Economy Reporter Gong Byung-sun] A man in his 70s who poured a flammable substance on his ex-girlfriend and himself and set it on fire after being reported for stalking by his ex-girlfriend has died.

On the 15th, the Dobong Police Station in Seoul announced that they plan to close the case without prosecution as Mr. A, a man in his 70s who was booked on charges of arson resulting in death of a dwelling, has passed away. It is known that Mr. A died in hospital after sustaining serious injuries.

A police official stated, "The victim has not yet been interviewed," and added, "After supplementary investigation, the case will be closed without prosecution."

Mr. A is accused of visiting the store of his ex-girlfriend, Ms. B, located in Dobong-gu, Seoul, at 6:32 p.m. on the 7th, pouring 500 ml of a volatile substance on both Ms. B and himself, and setting it on fire. Ms. B suffered first-degree burns and minor injuries, while Mr. A sustained third-degree burns and was transported to the hospital.

It is reported that Mr. A set the fire in retaliation after being reported by Ms. B earlier this month for violating the Stalking Punishment Act. Ms. B had reported to the police on the 30th of last month and the 5th of this month that Mr. A’s visits caused her anxiety.