On the night of April 26, 1982, stretching into the early hours of April 27, South Korea was plunged into shock by an unprecedented act of violence. This tragic event, which unfolded across several unsuspecting villages in Uiryeong County, South Gyeongsang Province, involved a South Korean policeman named Woo Bum-kon (sometimes referred to as Wou Bom-kon).

The Uiryeong County Rampage

Born on February 24, 1955, Woo Bum-kon was an officer who tragically became a spree killer. His devastating rampage resulted in the deaths of 56 innocent people and left 33 others wounded. The attacks, reportedly triggered by a domestic dispute earlier that evening, saw Woo arm himself with multiple weapons, including a rifle and hand grenades, from his police station's armory. He then systematically moved through the quiet, rural communities, unleashing an indiscriminate assault on residents. This horrifying spree continued for hours, leaving a trail of unimaginable grief and destruction, before he ultimately took his own life on April 27, 1982.

Historical Context and Impact

The scale of Woo Bum-kon's violence placed it among the deadliest acts committed by a single perpetrator in modern history. For nearly three decades, it stood as the deadliest known mass murder carried out by a lone gunman worldwide, a tragic distinction it held until the horrific Norway attacks of July 22, 2011, which saw an even greater loss of life. Domestically, within South Korea, Woo Bum-kon's rampage was also the deadliest deliberate single loss of life. This grim record remained until the Daegu subway fire in 2003, an entirely different type of catastrophe that, while accidental, resulted in a higher death toll and had a profound impact on public safety regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Woo Bum-kon?

Woo Bum-kon (also known as Wou Bom-kon) was a South Korean police officer born on February 24, 1955, who became a spree killer in 1982. He died by suicide on April 27, 1982, after his rampage.

What happened during the Uiryeong County massacre?

During the night of April 26-27, 1982, Woo Bum-kon embarked on a killing spree across several villages in Uiryeong County, South Gyeongsang Province, South Korea. He killed 56 people and wounded 33 others before committing suicide.

What reportedly triggered the events?

Reports indicate that the rampage was triggered by a domestic dispute earlier on the evening of April 26, 1982.

What was the final toll of the rampage?

The rampage resulted in the deaths of 56 people and injuries to 33 others.

Why is Woo Bum-kon's crime historically significant?

Until the Norway attacks in 2011, it was the deadliest known mass murder committed by a lone gunman in modern history. Within South Korea, it remained the deadliest deliberate single loss of life until the Daegu subway fire in 2003.