Incident at Jang Bogo Station
An overwintering researcher at South Korea's Antarctic base threatened colleagues with a makeshift knife, prompting an emergency evacuation.
On April 13, at approximately 7:20 PM local time, a safety incident occurred at the Jang Bogo Science Station in Antarctica. An overwintering research member threatened other personnel with a weapon described as a large makeshift knife. CCTV footage broadcast by Korean media shows a man carrying an improvised weapon on a staircase, with other footage capturing expeditioners fleeing the station's kitchen.
Response and Isolation
The station leader and officials immediately separated the individual from the rest of the team. The situation was brought under control without injuries. The man was isolated from the other 17 personnel for nearly three weeks before emergency transportation could be arranged.
Evacuation
Korea Polar Research Institute (KOPRI) decided on immediate emergency repatriation. Despite the austral winter and deteriorating weather halting regular flights, KOPRI secured emergency transportation through international diplomatic and logistical cooperation. The man was removed from the station on May 7 and flown back to Korea on Monday. A police investigation is ongoing.
Post-Incident Actions
KOPRI conducted remote video consultations and professional psychological counseling for all remaining personnel. The Jang Bogo Station continues normal operations. KOPRI stated it will enhance pre-deployment training and overhaul conflict management and incident response manuals, expressing a heavy sense of responsibility and apologizing to station members, their families, and the public.
Broader Context
Hanne Nielsen, a senior lecturer in Antarctic law and governance at the University of Tasmania, noted that threatening behavior has occurred at other isolated Antarctic bases, including a 2025 incident at South Africa's SANAE IV base, a 2018 stabbing by a Russian scientist, and a 1959 murder by a Russian scientist with an ice axe.
"Small incidents can escalate due to confined and remote living conditions."
Nielsen emphasized that pre-departure psychological assessments and appropriate personnel selection are critical for extended deployments. A 2022 report on Australia's Casey Station revealed concerns about bullying, discrimination, and sexual harassment; workplace reforms have led to some improvements but some problems persist.