South Korean Man Arrested for Murder with Samurai Sword in Seoul

On July 30, 37-year-old Baek was taken into custody for the murder of a man in his 40s, Kim, in Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul. The incident occurred late on July 29 at an apartment complex where both men resided.

Baek and Kim, who were acquainted but not close, got into a confrontation that led to Baek using an 80 cm-long Samurai sword to attack Kim. Despite Kim's attempt to call the police, he was fatally injured and later died in the hospital.

Baek, who fled the scene but was apprehended an hour later, had the sword legally registered as a decoration. The sword was authorized as Baek had no history of epilepsy, mental illness, or recent criminal activity. Neighbors noted a recent change in Baek’s behavior following a job loss and reported disturbing incidents involving the sword. Baek was not under the influence of drugs or alcohol during the attack, and further testing is planned.

Kim is survived by two young sons, aged 9 and 4.