At a self-service gas station in Busan, a mix-up of gasoline and diesel has led to damage for approximately 180 vehicles.
According to reports from the Saha District on September 5, the incident occurred around 11 a.m. on August 25 when an employee mistakenly transferred diesel intended for the diesel tank into the gasoline tank.
The following day at 10 a.m., a customer who filled up at the affected pump noticed issues with their vehicle and reported the situation to the gas station and the Korea Petroleum Quality Management Corporation, confirming the fuel mix-up.
So far, about 180 vehicles have been identified as affected. Symptoms of mixed fuel can include reduced power, noise, and engine stalling. In severe cases, the entire engine may need to be replaced. As a result, affected vehicle owners may face repair costs ranging from 1 million won to several million won, depending on the condition and extent of the damage.
One affected owner stated, “I heard strange noises while driving and went to a repair shop, where I was informed that my vehicle had been filled with mixed fuel.”
The gas station has expressed its intention to compensate the affected vehicle owners.
The Saha District plans to impose administrative penalties on the gas station based on the investigation results from the Korea Petroleum Quality Management Corporation.
If the fuel is confirmed to be counterfeit, the station could face a three-month business suspension. If deemed substandard, penalties could range from a three-month suspension to a warning, depending on whether there was intent or gross negligence.
Fines for counterfeit fuel can reach up to 100 million won, while penalties for substandard fuel can be as high as 30 million won.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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