Shocking Elevator Sabotage: Woman Cuts Wires Claiming 'Deadly Frequencies'

A Disturbing Incident in a Korean Apartment Complex

Did you know that in June 2025, a shocking incident unfolded in a Korean apartment complex? Residents were left stunned when a woman, identified as B, was caught on CCTV cutting the elevator's electrical wires not once, but twice. This act of sabotage came after months of escalating conflict and bizarre behavior, making headlines and sparking heated debates across online communities.
Residents had already been suffering from B's disruptive actions for years, but the situation reached a boiling point when the building's elevator suddenly stopped working. Upon inspection, the maintenance team discovered that the wires inside the distribution box had been deliberately severed. After costly repairs and the installation of CCTV to prevent further tampering, B was caught on camera returning with scissors to cut the wires again, just one day after the elevator was fixed.

The Motive: 'Deadly Frequencies' and Paranoia

Why would someone go to such lengths? According to police reports and interviews, B claimed that 'ultra-high frequencies' emitted by the elevator and CCTV were making her ill and threatening her life. She insisted these devices were 'harassing' her, fueling a deep sense of paranoia and distress. This explanation, while alarming, shed light on the serious mental health struggles she was facing. The community was left grappling with questions about personal safety, mental illness, and the limits of tolerance in shared living spaces.

Escalating Conflicts and Community Impact

The elevator sabotage was not an isolated event. For years, B had been involved in numerous disputes with neighbors, often complaining about noise and resorting to aggressive behavior. Reports from residents described her shouting in hallways, banging on doors, and even engaging in physical altercations. The situation worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic, with B's actions becoming increasingly erratic. Residents shared stories of her dropping bowling balls inside her apartment to create noise, hurling objects, and making threats.
Online communities like Nate Pann, Instiz, and DC Inside buzzed with posts from residents and onlookers alike. Some expressed sympathy for B's apparent suffering, while others voiced anger and fear, demanding stronger intervention from authorities.

Financial Burden and Repair Costs

The financial impact on residents was severe. The initial repair for the elevator cost about 5 million won, which residents had to pay out of pocket. After the second incident, the total repair bill climbed to a staggering 27 million won, meaning each household faced a burden of over 2 million won. While B's parents reportedly offered to cover the costs, many residents doubted the promise would be fulfilled. The uncertainty added to the community's anxiety, with some fearing that B might return after her release and cause further harm.

Police Response and Forced Hospitalization

In response to the repeated sabotage and growing concern for public safety, police intervened and B was forcibly admitted to a psychiatric hospital. Authorities also sought an arrest warrant, citing the ongoing risk she posed to the community. This action sparked debate about the adequacy of mental health support in Korea, and whether enough is being done to prevent such incidents before they escalate.
Some netizens on Naver and Daum questioned why it took so long for authorities to act, while others worried about the stigma attached to mental illness. The incident became a case study in the challenges of balancing individual rights with the safety of the wider community.

Community Reactions: Fear, Sympathy, and Calls for Change

Online forums and comment sections were flooded with reactions. On TheQoo and FM Korea, users posted messages ranging from outrage to empathy. 'I can't believe residents have to live in fear because of one person's actions,' wrote one commenter. Another said, 'Mental health care in Korea needs serious reform.' Some pointed out that the system often fails both the individual in crisis and the community at large.
Meanwhile, a few voices urged compassion, noting that B's behavior was likely driven by untreated illness rather than malice. 'We need better support systems, not just punishment,' argued a popular Naver blog post. The debate highlighted the complexities of communal living and the urgent need for comprehensive mental health services.

Cultural Context: Mental Health and Social Stigma in Korea

For international readers, it's important to understand the broader cultural context. In Korea, mental health issues have long been stigmatized, leading many to avoid seeking help until situations become critical. High-density apartment living can intensify conflicts, as noise complaints and personal disputes are common. The incident with B is not just about one person's actions, but reflects deeper societal challenges around mental health, community responsibility, and the pressures of urban life.
Fans of Korean culture may be surprised to learn how quickly such incidents can escalate, and how online communities play a key role in shaping public opinion. The event has sparked renewed calls for government action and greater awareness of mental health issues.

What Happens Next? Ongoing Concerns and Lessons Learned

As of July 2025, B remains hospitalized, and residents are anxiously waiting to see what will happen next. Will she return to the building? Will the promised compensation be paid? More importantly, will this incident lead to meaningful changes in how mental health crises are handled in Korea?
One thing is clear: the story has left a lasting impact on the community and has become a touchstone for discussions about safety, empathy, and the need for systemic reform. As online debates continue, many hope that this painful episode will lead to greater understanding and better support for those in need.