A Father’s Plea for Justice

During the trial,the victim’s father delivered a heart-wrenching appeal,directly addressing the court and demanding the maximum penalty for Kim Byung-chan. His emotional testimony underscored the devastating impact of the crime on the victim’s family.

Judge, I ask you to execute Kim Byung-chan.

Victim’s Father

The Crime: A Calculated Act of Violence

Kim Byung-chan’s actions culminated in the brutal murder of his ex-girlfriend, identified as Ms. A, in an officetel parking lot in Jung-gu, Seoul, on November 19, 2021. The crime followed months of relentless stalking after Ms. A ended thier relationship due to Kim’s violent behavior and financial issues.

Escalating Stalking and Failed Protection

The relationship between Kim and Ms. A began in January 2000 but deteriorated rapidly. After Ms. A ended the relationship in December of the same year, Kim initiated a campaign of intense stalking, including numerous phone calls and unwanted visits to her workplace. fearing for her safety, Ms. A relocated from Busan to Seoul and changed jobs in an attempt to escape his harassment.

Despite Ms. A reporting kim’s behavior to the police and obtaining a court order prohibiting him from contacting her or coming within 100 meters of her,the stalking continued. Kim persistently attempted to contact her, seeking to have the report withdrawn. He also researched methods of committing the crime online, indicating premeditation.

Emergency Call and Delayed Response

on the day of the murder,Ms. A managed to activate an emergency call smartwatch,sending a distress signal to the police. However, authorities arrived at the scene 12 minutes later, at 11:41 PM.Ms. A was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to her injuries later that day. This delay has raised questions about the effectiveness of emergency response systems in protecting victims of stalking.

According to a recent study by the Korean Institute of Criminology, delayed response times in stalking cases can substantially increase the risk of severe harm to the victim. The study highlights the need for improved coordination and faster response times from law enforcement agencies.

Legal Proceedings and Final Verdict

Following his arrest in Daegu, Kim Byung-chan admitted to the killing but claimed it was accidental. However, the court rejected this defense, citing evidence of premeditation and the severity of the stalking campaign.The initial trial resulted in a 35-year prison sentence, which was later increased to 40 years in the second trial.

The Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the 40-year sentence underscores the judiciary’s commitment to addressing stalking and protecting victims. The court stated that the sentence was not unfair, considering the gravity of the crime and the defendant’s actions.

The Lingering Impact on Survivors

Despite the legal outcome, the victim’s family expressed ongoing anxiety and fear, highlighting the long-term psychological impact of such crimes on survivors. We are not imprisoned, but we have no choice but to be anxious, they stated, reflecting the enduring trauma caused by Kim Byung-chan’s actions.