Police are currently searching the Cheongju District Court following a report that an explosive device has been planted there.

According to police and other sources today (the 26th), a report was filed at 10:26 AM by a court employee stating that they received an email claiming explosives had been planted at the court.

The email reportedly stated, "Homemade bombs have been installed in and around the Cheongju District Court. They will detonate between 1:34 PM and 7:30 PM."

The unidentified sender, who claimed to be a member of a Japanese idol group, explained the reason, saying, "After receiving a ruling to terminate my exclusive contract, I suffered from malicious comments and criticism and hired a lawyer, but I was devastated by the reality that nothing changed."

It was also confirmed that similar emails were sent to courts in other regions, including the Daejeon District Court.

The court immediately broadcasted an announcement stating, "A bomb threat has been reported. All staff and judges are requested to evacuate outside the building."

Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams and fire authorities have been dispatched to the scene to search for any potential explosives.

(Photo: Yonhap News)