My Galaxy S24 exploded in my hand during normal use (not charging)
This happened in South Korea on May 11, 2026.
My Galaxy S24 suddenly emitted smoke, extreme heat, and exploded in my hand while I was using it normally to search the internet.
Important details:
The phone was NOT charging
No drop damage
Never repaired or opened
Fire department responded
Signs consistent with lithium battery ignition were identified on site
I am currently receiving medical treatment for smoke inhalation symptoms and anxiety/insomnia after the incident
Samsung told me they would collect the device for internal investigation, but I have not received further explanation yet.
Photos, medical records, and incident evidence have been preserved.
For privacy and safety reasons, I would prefer to remain anonymous publicly.
If media outlets are interested, I am willing to provide additional photos and videos.
UPDATE1: 26.5.13
Thank you for all the concern, advice, and support.
This incident did actually happen, and many of my coworkers witnessed it as well. I also have video footage related to the incident, and I have already informed outlets such as BBC and CNN that I am willing to provide additional evidence if requested.
At the moment, I have not been contacted by any Korean media outlets.
I was actively using the phone in my hand for normal web searching when it suddenly began swelling very rapidly before exploding. Thankfully, the lower part of the phone split open during the incident, which likely reduced the severity of the injuries. I only suffered minor burn blisters instead of more serious physical harm.
(Additional Information) The device was purchased as an official unlocked Galaxy S24 through Samsung Partners in South Korea on June 11, 2024, and was received and activated on June 12, 2024. Since then, it had been used normally without any repairs, modifications, or internal opening.
I originally switched from Apple iPhones to Samsung years ago, and honestly, this experience — along with the response afterward — has changed the way I feel.
Please stay careful and safe with your devices as well.
I will continue updating this post if there are any major developments or investigation results.
UPDATE2: 26.05.13
I was just contacted by the director of a local Samsung service center. According to what I was told, employees from Samsung headquarters became aware of this Reddit post and instructed the local service center to respond. I am still recording and preserving all communication related to this incident, and if major media outlets request it, I am prepared to provide those records as well. I once again requested direct communication from the appropriate department at Samsung headquarters. To be clear, I have never demanded financial compensation during this process. What I truly want is for Samsung to recognize the seriousness of this incident and respond with transparency and sincerity. Experiencing something like this has honestly changed the way I think about battery fire situations and consumer safety. I hope companies learn to take these incidents seriously before they become larger public safety issues.
I’ve honestly realized how powerful Reddit can be.
Thank you everyone. The support and attention from people here have genuinely helped someone like me feel less alone while dealing with this situation.
If more people become aware of battery safety risks through this post, I think that alone would already mean a lot to me.
And seriously, for everyone reading this on their phones right now — please stay safe and pay attention to unusual heat or warning signs 😅