Did a Bomb Threat Lead to an Evacuation in Seoul?
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Synopsis
A bomb threat triggered the evacuation of approximately 100 moviegoers in Seoul, but fortunately, no explosives were found. This incident raises concerns about safety in public spaces and highlights the need for vigilance. Find out more about the ongoing investigations and the implications for public security.
Key Takeaways
- Fake bomb threats can lead to serious evacuations and public safety concerns.
- Authorities are actively investigating to identify the source of threats.
- Public safety measures are being enhanced, including the deployment of bomb disposal robots.
- Community vigilance is essential in maintaining safety in public spaces.
- Timely responses from emergency services are crucial in such situations.
Seoul, Nov 9 (NationPress) Approximately 100 individuals were evacuated from a department store in Seoul following a false bomb threat circulated online, with no explosives located, as confirmed by authorities on Sunday.
The threat emerged late Saturday on the online forum DC Inside, warning users to "exit the Lotte Department Store in Seoul immediately" and alleging that five bombs were planted on the second floor, according to police and fire officials.
An anti-terrorism response team and additional officers were dispatched to ten Lotte Department Store locations across Seoul, but no explosives were found, as reported by Yonhap News Agency.
While all stores had already closed for the night, around 100 moviegoers at a cinema located within a Lotte Department Store in northern Seoul were evacuated as a precautionary measure, officials stated.
Authorities indicated that they are currently tracing the Internet Protocol (IP) address — the online equivalent of a physical address — used to post the threat in order to identify the perpetrator.
Later on Sunday morning, another bomb threat was reported online, claiming explosives had been planted at The Hyundai Seoul department store in Yeouido, a financial district of Seoul and home to the National Assembly.
Police and firefighters conducted a search of the department store but found no explosives, authorities said, noting that investigations are ongoing to identify the person responsible for the post, which has since been removed.
In a related development, earlier in September, the state arms procurement agency announced that the military will receive domestically produced bomb disposal robots from a major defense firm starting at the end of this year, a step anticipated to enhance troop safety upon full deployment.
Under a 270 billion-won ($192 million) agreement, the explosive ordinance disposal (EOD) devices, developed by Hanwha Aerospace Co., are expected to be fully operational across the military by the end of 2027, according to the Defence Acquisition Programme Administration (DAPA).
These robots are designed not only to detect and defuse bombs but also to perform various missions, including conducting surveillance in high-risk areas, establishing routes in the fortified Demilitarised Zone, and searching underground facilities.
"When the homegrown EOD robots are deployed to military units, they will not only boost the military's operational capabilities but also enhance troop safety," stated a DAPA official.
Point of View
My focus remains on delivering accurate and timely news to our audience. The recent bomb threats in Seoul serve as a reminder of the importance of public safety and vigilance. We support the authorities in their efforts to ensure the safety of citizens and urge the public to remain calm and informed.
NationPress
09/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the evacuation at the Lotte Department Store?
A false bomb threat posted online prompted the evacuation of approximately 100 moviegoers at the Lotte Department Store in Seoul.
Were any explosives found during the search?
No explosives were discovered during the thorough searches conducted by police and fire officials.
What measures are being taken to address the bomb threats?
Authorities are tracing the IP address of the online threat to identify the suspect and are currently investigating the matter.
What are the implications of the bomb threat for public safety?
This incident raises significant concerns about safety in public spaces and emphasizes the need for heightened security measures.
What is the status of the bomb disposal robots being developed?
The military is set to receive bomb disposal robots developed by Hanwha Aerospace, expected to enhance troop safety and operational capabilities by 2027.
