Suwon 'drug zombie' suspect tests negative for meth, released

A 30-year-old man, initially arrested on suspicion of drug use after his unusual behavior was captured on video and circulated online, has been released from custody.

The man, identified only as Mr. K, was arrested on June 23 on suspicion of violating drug laws. Police had observed him behaving erratically near a bus stop in Suwon, South Korea, exhibiting symptoms that led them to suspect he had used methamphetamine. The arrest followed the spread of videos on social media depicting him with his arms hanging loosely, drawing comparisons to individuals affected by drugs like fentanyl in other countries.

“

I was tired.

During the initial arrest, a rapid drug test administered by the police indicated a positive result for methamphetamine. Based on this, police considered seeking an arrest warrant. However, the man was released after a preliminary test conducted by the National Forensic Service came back negative for methamphetamine. He also tested negative for fentanyl in a separate rapid test.

Mr. K reportedly explained his behavior to investigators by stating he was tired and that he was performing stretches at the time. Police are awaiting the results of a more detailed forensic examination, which is expected to take about a week, to determine the next steps in their investigation.

“

I was stretching.