Hyundai Evacuates Offices Over Bitcoin Threat

Hyundai Group Evacuates Employees After Bitcoin Bomb Threat

Hyundai Group took swift action today in response to a bomb threat email demanding payment in bitcoin, evacuating employees from two major offices in Seoul. The incident, which turned out to be a hoax, has raised concerns over a recent surge in extortion threats targeting South Korea’s largest companies.

According to local reports, a 112 emergency call was received at approximately 11:42 a.m., alerting authorities to the threat made against Hyundai Group. The email specified that an explosive device would be detonated at Hyundai Group’s building in Yeonji-dong, Jongno-gu, at 11:30 a.m. It also mentioned a second bomb intended for Hyundai Motor Group’s office in Yangjae-dong, Seocho-gu.

The email demanded payment of 13 bitcoins, equivalent to about $1.1 million at current prices. Despite the threat, no explosive devices were found at either location after police conducted thorough searches with special forces units and bomb squads.

Following the investigation, authorities confirmed that the threat was a scam and that operations at the buildings could resume as usual. No injuries or property damage were reported, and no bitcoin payment was made.

Rise in Corporate Threats and Bitcoin-Related Crimes

The incident involving Hyundai is part of a series of recent threats targeting major South Korean corporations. Just days before, bomb threats were made against Samsung Electronics, Kakao, and Naver, with extortion demands for large cash payments.

Similar threats were also reported at KT’s office in Bundang, Seongnam, further highlighting the trend of digital extortion attempts using fear tactics. Authorities suspect that these incidents are part of a coordinated effort to extort money from companies without actually possessing any explosives.

Investigations are underway to track down the individuals responsible for these threats and determine the origins of the messages. Despite the disruptions caused by these incidents, companies are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.