Korean Taxi driver burns himself to death outside National Assembly Building in protest against ride

A South Korean taxi driver has reportedly died by setting himself on fire in his vehicle to protest against an app based carpooling service which many drivers believe will threaten their jobs and livelihoods. 57-year-old taxi driver, Choi, reportedly drove his vehicle and parked in front of the National Assembly Building in Seoul at around 2pm on Monday 10. He then drenched himself in a flammable liquid and set himself on fire. Choi was rushed to hospital but medics were unable to save him. According to a report in World of Buzz, Choi had notified his acquaintances of his plans to set himself on fire. Taxi drivers have become more and more concerned about the introduction of carpooling service KaKao Mobility, which many believe will have a severe negative impact of their jobs. KaKao Mobility is set for it’s official launch on December 17 although taxi drivers have been persistent in opposing the decision to grant a service operators licence to them. Condolences have been sent to Choi’s family and friends by the Korea National Joint Conference of Taxi Association.