LNG leak in southern Seoul forces 130 to evacuate

Crews work to contain a gas leak in southeastern Seoul's Songpa District, Thursday. Newsis

A liquefied natural gas leak on Thursday in southeastern Seoul's Songpa District prompted the evacuation of about 130 residents. No injuries were reported.

According to fire authorities, a report of a gas leak was received Tuesday at around 2:46 p.m. near Exit 4 of Hanseong Baekje Station on Seoul Metro Line 9.

Firefighters dispatched 10 vehicles and 38 personnel to secure the scene, blocking the station's exits and surrounding roads. Immediately after the incident, both directions of traffic were fully restricted on the road stretching from Exit 4 of the station toward Bangi Market. Nearby residents were evacuated as a precaution.

After the leak was contained, all traffic restrictions were lifted and vehicle flow returned to normal. Safety measures related to the city gas system have also been completed. Fire authorities are investigating the exact cause of the leak and the circumstances of the incident.