The number of violent crimes committed by foreign nationals is rapidly increasing in South Korea. Between May 17 and 19, a Chinese man in his 50s stabbed a female convenience store owner in her 60s with a knife in Siheung, Gyeonggi Province, and fled the scene. Later the same day, at around 1:30 p.m., he stabbed a man in his 70s—his landlord—in a nearby sports park parking lot. Both victims sustained serious injuries and were taken to the hospital.
While tracking the suspect, police discovered two additional bodies—one at the suspect’s residence and another at a house across from the convenience store. Both were identified as Chinese brothers in their 50s. It was confirmed that they had been dead for several days. The suspect was apprehended near Sihwa Lake at 7:24 p.m. the same day.
Reaction from Local Citizens
Immediately after the incident, residents in the Jeongwang-dong area of Siheung said, “I’m afraid to go outside,” and “It’s terrifying that this happened in broad daylight,” expressing extreme anxiety. Once news spread that the suspect was still at large, police conducted a large-scale search and Siheung City issued safety alert text messages, heightening tension across the area. Residents said they kept checking map apps to determine where the incident occurred and noted that nearly ten police cars passed by, which made them avoid going out even for daily errands.
Strengthened Measures for Foreign Offender Response and Penalties
Following this and other recent violent crimes involving foreign nationals, the government and police are working to strengthen their policies on response and punishment. Under the revised Enforcement Decree of the Immigration Control Act, effective November 2024, foreigners who are fined over 3 million KRW for offenses such as assault, or who accumulate fines exceeding 5 million KRW, are subject to deportation review. If sentenced to imprisonment, they may face immediate deportation or expulsion orders.
Interviews – Citizens in Their 20s
25-year-old female college student: “Honestly, it’s really scary. Knife attacks are frightening enough, but murder is just horrific. I wish there were more CCTVs and police patrols in the neighborhood. I also hope foreigner-related crimes are managed more strictly. I’m not saying we should suspect all foreigners, but safety should come first.”
26-year-old male college student: “This incident has caused great fear and shock in the local community. I think strengthening public safety and preventive measures is urgent. While it’s possible that prejudice against foreigners may grow, we also need to remember that crime is an individual issue.”
This case in Siheung has brought shock and fear to the community. Strengthening public safety and preventive measures is urgent. Prejudice against foreigners may have grown through this incident. It is also important to recognize that crime is an individual issue. While the government and police responded quickly, more systematic management and support will be needed going forward. We hope to see a safer environment where all residents can live without fear.
US ASIA JOURNAL K-UNIV REPORTER
LIYEON KIM
