Why Do Korean Subway Stations Keep Gas Masks and Emergency Kits?

If you have spotted glass cabinets full of gas masks, fire extinguishers and emergency gear on a Seoul subway platform, you are not imagining things. Korean subway stations keep this equipment mainly because of the 2003 Daegu subway fire, a disaster in which smoke, not flames, caused most of the deaths. Since then, operators have treated smoke protection and fast evacuation as basic station equipment. Many stations also double as civil defense shelters, which adds a second reason for the visible emergency supplies.

The disaster that changed Korean subway safety

In February 2003, an arson attack on a train at Jungangno Station in Daegu spread to a second train and filled the underground station with thick, toxic smoke. 192 people died and more than 150 were injured. Many victims were overcome by smoke while trying to find the exits in the dark.

The lesson was clear: in an underground fire, people need a few extra minutes of breathable air and a clear way out. That shaped much of what you see in stations today.

What changed after 2003

Smoke protection on platforms: Seoul Metro and other operators placed gas masks (smoke hoods) in station cabinets, along with items like wet towels in some places, so passengers can protect their breathing while they evacuate.
Safer trains: Flammable seat materials and interiors were replaced with stainless steel and flame-resistant materials.
Better exits and signage: Evacuation signs, guide lights and firewalls were improved, and tunnel escape routes were marked more clearly.
Platform screen doors: Seoul sped up installation of platform screen doors, which also improved everyday safety.

What is inside the emergency cabinets

The exact contents vary by station and operator, but you will usually find some combination of:

Gas masks or emergency smoke hoods for adults (sometimes also child sizes)
Fire extinguishers and fire hose cabinets
AEDs (automated external defibrillators) in many stations
Emergency lights or flashlights, and in some stations first-aid supplies

Labels are usually in Korean with English, and often pictograms, so you can understand the basic steps even without reading Korean. The cabinets are meant for real emergencies only, so do not open them out of curiosity.

"In smoke, stay low, cover your nose and mouth, and head for the green exit signs. The mask buys you time, it does not replace getting out." — Cito, a nurse in POPORO CITY

Subway stations as civil defense shelters

South Korea holds regular civil defense drills, and many underground spaces, including subway stations and large building basements, are designated as emergency shelters. Look for the shelter sign (대피소) near station entrances. That is another reason visitors notice emergency equipment and signs underground. It does not mean danger is expected; it is simply part of how the country prepares.

What to do if something happens on the subway

Stay calm and follow staff and announcements. Major lines also make announcements in English.
Inside a train, use the emergency intercom to talk to the driver. Each car also has a fire extinguisher, usually under or near the seats.
Do not force doors open unless you are told to evacuate; trains can stop in tunnels where tracks are dangerous.
If there is smoke, cover your nose and mouth, stay low and follow the exit signs.
For emergencies, call 119 (fire and ambulance) or 112 (police). The 1330 tourist line can help with interpretation.

For more on getting around underground, see our Seoul subway guide for first-timers and our tips on staying safe while traveling solo in Korea.

Quick tips

When you enter a big station, glance at where the exits and emergency cabinets are.
Save 119, 112 and 1330 in your phone before your trip.
Leave the cabinets alone unless there is a real emergency.
Check your operator's official site or station notices for the current safety guide.

FAQ

Is the Korean subway safe?

Yes. Seoul's subway is widely regarded as clean, well run and safe for visitors. The emergency equipment is a precaution, not a warning sign.

Can anyone use the gas masks?

Yes, in an emergency they are for passengers. Instructions are printed on the cabinet or the mask package.

Why did Korea focus on smoke instead of fire?

In the 2003 Daegu fire, most victims died from smoke inhalation, so breathing protection and clear exits became priorities.

What number do I call in an emergency in Korea?

Call 119 for fire or ambulance and 112 for police. For language help, the Korea Travel Hotline is 1330.