'Gang members' spark mass brawl on Busan's adult entertainment street

Police are investigating 10 alleged gang members for causing a mass brawl in Haeundae, Busan.

The Busan Haeundae Police Station [BUSAN METROPOLITAN POLICE AGENCY]

Police are investigating 10 alleged gang members for causing a mass brawl in Haeundae, Busan.

The Busan Haeundae Police Precinct said on Sunday that it is investigating 10 men involved in the brawl, charging them with violating the Punishment of Violence Act.

The mass brawl broke out last Wednesday on an adult entertainment street behind the Grand Hotel in Haeundae, Busan.

What began as a one-on-one skirmish escalated over an hour and a half, with approximately 10 additional men joining in, resulting in a group brawl, according to police.

Police allege that these additional individuals arrived at the scene after receiving a call. It is reported that they fought in groups.

As a result of the scuffle, nearby facilities, such as glass doors, were damaged.

Some witnesses claimed that the alleged thugs were armed with deadly weapons, according to police.

Police stated that they are in the process of confirming the individuals' identities to ascertain if they are actual gang members. They added that they are focused on questioning them about the cause of the fight.

"We believe that the fight may have started accidentally, but we are closely investigating the case as it is serious," police stated.

Police also announced plans for an intensive investigation against the individuals, including requesting arrest warrants.

BY LEE HAY-JUNE, KIM JI-YE [kim.jiye@joongang.co.kr]