Arson attempted at Tokyo Korea Cultural Center

An arsonist attempted to start a fire at the Korean Cultural Center in Tokyo, Japan on Wednesday night, the South Korean embassy in Japan said Thursday.

The suspect reportedly poured oil onto the building’s outer wall and immediately fled the scene after lighting a fire, according to the center’s CCTV footage.

An official of the Korea Tourism Organization in the building reported to the fire authorities after discovering blackened spots on the wall on Wednesday.

There were no casualties or significant damages to the stone-walled building.

The center has requested Tokyo police officials to open an investigation and provide heightened security to the area.

By Sohn Ji-young (jys@heraldcorp.com)