Truck Crash at South Korea Market Kills 2, Injures 20

Deadly Market Crash in Bucheon

A tragic vehicle accident occurred at Jeil Market in Bucheon, South Korea on Thursday, November 13, 2025, when a pickup truck crashed into the crowded marketplace, resulting in two fatalities and at least 20 injuries. The incident has shocked the local community and raised serious questions about vehicle safety in densely populated urban areas.

Details of the Incident

The accident unfolded around 10:55 AM local time when a man in his 60s, who was reportedly a merchant at the market himself, drove his pickup truck into the busy market area. According to eyewitness accounts and official reports from Yonhap News Agency, the vehicle first reversed approximately 28 meters before suddenly lurching forward and traveling about 150 meters through the market pathways.

'I heard loud screams and then a terrible crashing sound,' said one witness who was shopping at the market. 'People were running in all directions trying to get out of the way.'

Casualties and Emergency Response

The two victims who lost their lives were identified as elderly women in their 70s. Among the 20 injured individuals, three were reported to have suffered impaired consciousness and six were classified as emergency patients requiring immediate medical attention. Emergency services responded quickly to the scene, with Bucheon Fire Station deploying 21 vehicles and 60 personnel to manage the situation.

Field commander Park Geumcheon from Bucheon Fire Station stated: 'We received multiple emergency calls about the incident and immediately dispatched all available resources. Our priority was stabilizing the injured and securing the area.'

Driver's Account and Investigation

The driver, who sustained only minor injuries, claimed that the vehicle experienced sudden unintended acceleration and that the brakes failed to function properly. However, authorities have expressed skepticism about this explanation. Police confirmed that the driver was not under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the incident.

According to Asia Economic Daily, investigators found it difficult to verify the driver's claim of sudden acceleration from CCTV footage of the moving vehicle. The truck has been transferred to forensic experts for detailed mechanical examination to determine the exact cause of the accident.

Legal Consequences and Community Impact

The driver has been arrested and charged with negligent homicide and injury under South Korea's Traffic Accident Special Act. This incident has reignited discussions about vehicle safety standards and traffic management in traditional markets, which are often crowded with pedestrians and vendors.

Bucheon, located approximately 20 kilometers west of Seoul, is known for its dense population and traditional markets that serve as vital community hubs. The city has a population density second only to Seoul itself, making such incidents particularly concerning for public safety.

Local authorities have promised a thorough investigation and review of safety measures in market areas to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The community is mourning the loss of life while supporting the injured victims and their families during this difficult time.