Police officer destroys teenage son's phone over alleged illegal filming, faces evidence tampering probe

A police officer in South Korea faces an investigation for allegedly destroying his teenage son's mobile phone, believed to contain evidence of illegal filming. The officer, identified by the initial 'K', is accused of obstructing justice.

The incident came to light during a nationwide review of cases involving police families, prompted by a previous high-profile case where a police executive's father was suspected of concealing evidence related to sexual offenses. Officer K reportedly admitted to breaking and discarding his son's phone after discovering the teenager had attempted to illegally film a teacher.

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After learning that my son attempted to illegally film a teacher, I became angry and broke and discarded his phone.

Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the phone's destruction and are attempting to locate the device. Police stated that while legal provisions regarding punishment for immediate family members might limit criminal charges against Officer K, he has been formally booked. The outcome of the investigation will determine disciplinary actions.

Previously, the Jeonju Wansan Police Station had investigated the son for illegal filming based on a complaint from the victimized teacher. The case was transferred to prosecutors late last month.

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Although direct criminal punishment for immediate family members may be difficult due to the 'kinship privilege' regulations, booking is possible. We plan to decide on disciplinary action based on the investigation results.