"In Korea, This Happened"... Ran Away Holding a Luxury Bag Just Five Steps Ahead

Woman Fleeing with Luxury Bag in Incheon Songdo
Takes Bag from Bench... CCTV Secured

A story about a woman who fled with a luxury bag containing car keys, cash, and other valuables in broad daylight is gaining attention.

A woman fleeing while carrying a bag.
[Photo by Online Community]

On the 24th, a post titled "To the person who took the bag next to the Songdo OOO building" was uploaded on an online community. As of 1 p.m. on the 24th, the post had over 48,000 views and more than 1,100 recommendations, becoming a major topic. The author, Mr. A, began by saying, "I am very upset that such a thing happened in South Korea."

Mr. A claimed, "Around 5:27 p.m. on the 23rd, a woman took my bag from a bench next to the Songdo OOO building," adding, "The bag contained my ID card, car keys, various cards, 510,000 won in cash and coins, lipstick, and more." He also emphasized that the bag was a luxury brand worth over 1 million won.

Mr. A explained the situation, saying, "(The thief) took the bag and entered the building even though I was only five steps ahead. Inside the building, she ran out through another exit." He continued, "I searched for and reviewed CCTV footage for over two hours. I have reported the incident to the police station and will go to the prosecutor’s office tomorrow. The police said they are tracking her movement and will contact me."

He appealed, "It’s not about the amount of money, but I am very upset that such a thing happened in South Korea." He added, "I left my car behind because I didn’t have the keys. I wandered the streets for over two hours, and it rained." Mr. A also said, "I couldn’t work today because I was busy with the police and other matters. If you see this, please return my belongings. I want to resolve this amicably. If anyone knows her, please contact me."

Netizens who read the story responded with comments such as, "She’s so brazen," "There are CCTV cameras everywhere, yet she’s not afraid," "If caught, she will taste the bitter side of life," "Make sure she learns that life isn’t that easy," "It would be good to check if the bag has been posted on secondhand trading apps," "If she uses the cards even once, she’ll be caught immediately, so she should just turn herself in," and "What was she thinking taking the bag and running?"

Meanwhile, this case can be punished under simple theft (Article 329). If someone steals another person’s property by simple theft, they can face imprisonment for up to six years or a fine of up to 10 million won. If two or more people conspire and commit theft together, it is considered special theft, which can result in imprisonment from one to ten years if convicted.