Korean man found dead after scattering cash and destroying laptop in Thai river

Social Affairs

Korean man found dead after scattering cash and destroying laptop in Thai river

Published: 14 Aug. 2024, 13:08 Updated: 14 Aug. 2024, 18:35

A rescue team searching for the dead body in Ping River in Chiang mai, Thailand. [CHIANG MAI NEWS AND CHANNEL 8 VIA THAIGER]

A Korean man in his 40s, who was seen stripping down and scattering cash before walking into a river in Thailand while holding a laptop, has been found dead by local police.

According to Thai media on Tuesday, including Thaiger, police retrieved the body of a 44-year-old Korean man, identified by the surname Son, from the Ping River in Chiang Mai, Thailand, on Sunday following a report from a resident.

The fisherman who witnessed the incident told the police that the man arrived at the scene by tuk-tuk, a three-wheeled motorized rickshaw. He removed all his clothes except for his underwear, took a laptop from his backpack, destroyed it and scattered cash around.

The man then walked into the river with the damaged laptop and swam on his back until he disappeared from view. The fisherman subsequently reported the incident to local police.

Later, at around 2 p.m. on Monday, a local resident discovered the body floating in the river about 1 kilometer (0.62 miles) downstream from where he had entered.

His clothing, shoes, Korean won and passport were also recovered at the scene.

Initial autopsy results showed no signs of bruises or foul play, according to local authorities. They believe the man’s actions were likely due to personal stress or issues, but further investigation is ongoing.

The South Korean Embassy in Thailand was notified of the case and the consulate is currently assisting the deceased's family, the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Wednesday.

“The South Korean consulate in Thailand is providing support to the bereaved family since the accident was recognized,” said the ministry.

BY WOO JI-WON [woo.jiwon@joongang.co.kr]