Choi Chung-rak, Suspect in Incheon Knife Attack, Rambles Incoherently and Blames Only the Hospital

Police have begun analyzing evidence secured from a court-authorized search of Choi Chung-rak's residence, the suspect in the "Incheon knife attack." On the morning of the 17th, police secured a memo pad, pill envelopes, and what appears to be a sign used in front of the hospital at the time, from Choi's home in Gyeyang-gu, Incheon. Choi accompanied officers during the search. While police are analyzing the evidence to determine the motive for the crime, Choi continues to ramble incoherently during questioning, repeatedly blaming only the hospital where he was treated. Meanwhile, police reportedly have no plans to summon Choi for a formal statement interview today.

When confronted by reporters during his pre-arrest warrant hearing and the search, Choi gave no answer when asked whether he had planned the attack in advance, and when asked whether he had anything to say to the victims, he only replied, "Ask the hospital." During questioning, Choi has repeatedly stated that he wanted to voice his grievances against the hospital that treated him and committed the crime to make the news. He also reportedly told police that he had considered targeting a daycare center but decided against it, saying it would "be going too far." The memo secured from his home is also said to contain complaints about the hospital.

Based on these statements and the evidence, police are investigating whether the attack was premeditated, while tracing the suspect's movements on the day of the crime using his mobile phone and other sources. The incident first came to light when the first 119 emergency call was received at around 1:49 p.m. that day. Fire authorities reportedly received a total of 25 calls, including 21 regular reports and 4 requests for a joint response with police.