Police probe alleged clash between Central Asian groups in Pyeongtaek

Pyeongtaek police are investigating a violent clash between groups of Central Asian nationals that occurred in a residential neighborhood on Saturday night, according to officials. The incident, which reportedly left many residents in shock and fear, broke out around 11:40 p.m. and involved approximately 15 people, though witnesses initially reported as many as 40 individuals engaged in the fight.

Two men in their 20s, a Russian national and a Kyrgyz national, were detained while fleeing the scene and sustained injuries, including fractures, requiring hospital treatment. Both are legal residents who entered South Korea on visas. The remaining suspects and two witnesses have all denied involvement, claiming they were attacked while walking down the street.

Police believe the brawl may have resulted from a conflict between groups of Central Asian nationals in the area, which is home to a significant foreign worker and ethnic Korean population. The suspects are not believed to be part of an organized crime group, though investigators are examining relationships among those involved.

Police are tracking the remaining suspects using surveillance footage and vehicle license plates, as well as checking for prior contact or repeated coordinated actions. In response to the incident, which took place in a children's park, the police have increased patrols in the area to ease resident concerns and prevent further incidents.