Suicide by Burning in Korea

Of 2,143 admissions following suicide attempts over a seven year period (1980-1986) in Seoul, Korea, there were 38 cases (1.8%) of suicide by burning. These cases were matched by age and sex with a control group of suicide attempts in general and were investigated for psychosocial differences from other suicide attempters. No significant differences were found in social factors such as education, religion, marital status, seasonal change and occupation. The majority of suicide attempts by burning were in a public place (73.7%) and were eventually fatal despite intensive medical treatment (78.9%). Half (52.7%) suffered from significant mental disorders and marital disharmony.