Tenant in Gosiwon Threatened to "Set Fire" After Landlord's Eviction Request Sentenced to Prison

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Hyesook] Two residents of a goshiwon who threatened arson after refusing the building owner's eviction request were sentenced to prison and probation, respectively.

Judge Oh Gidu of the Incheon District Court Criminal Division 1 announced on the 8th that A (56, male), who was indicted for attempted arson of an occupied building and obstruction of official duties, was sentenced to one year in prison, and B (59, male) was sentenced to eight months in prison with two years of probation.

A and others were prosecuted for blocking the entrance door of a goshiwon on the 6th floor of a building in Namdong-gu, Incheon, on April 17, then threatening police officers and firefighters who arrived by saying they would pour flammable materials and set fire.

They were investigated to have continued living in the goshiwon following the encouragement of C (52), the goshiwon operator, who promised to provide compensation, despite the building owner's eviction request. The building owner asked them to leave the building scheduled for demolition, but C refused, demanding compensation.

A and B came out of the building after a day of standoff with the police, while C and another resident D (68, female) continued their protest and were found dead on May 12.

The police and fire authorities forcibly opened the door and entered after no signs of life were detected inside the goshiwon, discovering the deceased. It was reported that the gas concentration where C and others stayed greatly exceeded safety standards.

The court stated, "The defendants who attempted arson severely obstructed the legitimate duties of the responding police officers and firefighters, showing very poor criminal nature," adding, "A has a prior record of recidivism."

However, regarding B, the court explained the sentencing reason, saying, "B's physical condition is poor, and his involvement in the crime was relatively minor," and "considering that he has no criminal record except for a past fine of 200,000 won for violent behavior."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.