Seodaemun Elementary School Kidnapping Attempt: Three Men in Their 20s Arrested
A shocking kidnapping attempt targeting elementary school students in Seoul’s Seodaemun District has been confirmed to be true. Initially dismissed by police as “no evidence of crime,” further reports and investigations led to the arrest of three men in their 20s. The case has sparked outrage and raised urgent concerns about child safety around schools and in local communities.
Incident Timeline
According to police, on the afternoon of August 28, the suspects approached elementary school children near a school and public parking lot in Hong-eun-dong, Seodaemun. Driving a gray Kia Sorento, the men allegedly told the children, “You’re cute, we’ll take you home,” in an attempt to lure them into the vehicle. The attempt failed when the children ran away.
The initial report described the suspect vehicle as a white van, creating confusion and leading police to conclude there was “no kidnapping attempt.” However, follow-up reports and CCTV reviews confirmed the incident and revealed two additional attempts.
Arrests and Suspect Statements
Seodaemun Police tracked down the vehicle and arrested three men in their 20s on charges of attempted child abduction. Two suspects have been referred for arrest warrants, while one is under investigation without detention after reportedly trying to stop the others. All three men have no prior criminal records.
During questioning, the suspects, who have been friends since middle school, claimed they acted “as a prank.” Police, however, emphasized that such behavior constitutes a serious crime and is being treated with severity.
Police and School Response
Police acknowledged their initial misjudgment, explaining that the discrepancy between the reported and actual vehicle delayed confirmation. After additional reports surfaced, they deployed a special task force that uncovered more incidents. Local schools also issued emergency letters to parents, urging them to remain vigilant and reminding families of basic child safety rules.
Heightened Community Concerns
Although no children were harmed, the case has heightened public alarm about child protection in Korea. Parents and community leaders are calling for stronger safety measures, including more CCTV coverage around schools and faster initial responses from law enforcement. Experts stress that such crimes cannot be brushed aside as jokes, demanding strict punishment and systemic prevention efforts.
🔎 Key Summary
- Attempted abduction of elementary school students in Seodaemun confirmed
- Three men in their 20s arrested; two face detention, one under investigation
- Suspects claim it was “just a prank” despite serious charges
- Initial police dismissal due to vehicle description mismatch
- Community demands stronger child safety and faster police response
Child Night Care system
FAQ: Seodaemun Kidnapping Attempt
1. When and where did the incident occur?
The attempted abductions took place on August 28 near an elementary school and parking lot in Hong-eun-dong, Seodaemun District, Seoul.
2. Who are the suspects?
Three men in their 20s who have been friends since middle school. None had previous criminal records.
3. What was their alleged motive?
They told police they acted “as a prank,” but authorities are treating it as a serious criminal offense.
4. Why was the case initially dismissed?
The first report described a different vehicle (a white van), while the actual crime involved a gray Kia Sorento, causing confusion during early investigation.
5. How are schools and authorities responding?
Police have launched stronger investigations, and schools have issued safety notices urging parents to stay vigilant and teach children safety rules.
Conclusion: Child Safety Cannot Be Taken Lightly
The Seodaemun kidnapping attempt serves as a grave reminder that child safety must remain a top priority. What suspects may dismiss as “a prank” can deeply traumatize children and families. This case highlights the urgent need for faster police action, community vigilance, and stronger preventive systems to ensure that children can grow up in a safer environment.
