Police have launched an investigation into a bomb threat directed at Gwangju Ilgo High School, following a controversy involving the school's baseball team and Baejae High School during a recent high school baseball tournament.
The National Police Agency announced on July 5 that it is investigating a public threat incident after a post claimed explosives had been placed at Gwangju Ilgo. The agency described the act as a clear crime that infringes on students' right to education and disrupts public peace.
Authorities emphasized their commitment to a strict response against any posts that defame schools or students, or that threaten violence, stating they would apply charges under the Information and Communications Network Act and public threat laws.
Earlier, on July 4, police received a report about a post claiming that explosives had been placed at Gwangju Ilgo. Following the report, police and fire authorities evacuated students and staff and conducted a two-hour search of the school, but no explosives or hazardous materials were found.
The threatening message reportedly stated, "A bomb has been placed at Gwangju Ilgo, which has trampled the future of Baejae youth."
Police believe this incident is related to the recent controversy over chants made by Baejae High School's baseball team that mocked the May 18 Democratic Movement and belittled the Gwangju region. They are currently tracking the author of the post and will investigate any connections to Baejae High School's scheduled official apology visit to Gwangju Ilgo on July 6.
Previously, Baejae High School's baseball team faced criticism for chants directed at Gwangju Ilgo during the tournament, including phrases that mocked the May 18 Democratic Movement. The team is set to visit Gwangju Ilgo on July 6 to offer an official apology.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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