Police reform urged after body believed to be missing woman found on Jeju

A body believed to be that of Jang Mi-ran, 37, who disappeared in May, was discovered on Jeju Island on Monday, 101 days after a police officer prematurely closed her missing person case. The officer had falsely claimed to have contacted Jang, leading to widespread criticism of the Jeju Provincial Police for allegedly attempting to cover up her disappearance.

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Police face mounting criticism for attempting to cover up her disappearance by falsely claiming that an officer had contacted her.

Jang's cell phone and clothing were found near the body at a palm farm in Hallim, northwestern Jeju. Police are awaiting DNA analysis to confirm her identity and cause of death. While a police source suggested foul play was unlikely, the circumstances surrounding the initial handling of the case have drawn significant public ire.

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The possibility of foul play appeared to be low.

This incident follows the discovery of a body belonging to another missing man in his 60s, whom the same officer had also falsely reported as safe. The officer was arrested for dereliction of duty but was later released by the Jeju District Court, prompting prosecutors to seek a detention warrant.

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President Lee Jae Myung ordered a meticulous probe into the facts throughout the investigation into Jang’s disappearance, as well as a review of the closure of the case and the overall command and supervisory system.

In response, President Lee Jae Myung has ordered a meticulous investigation into Jang's disappearance and the case closure. He also expressed deep sorrow and regret, directing the police to implement reforms and improve their command and supervisory systems. The case highlights systemic issues within the missing persons investigation team.

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Lee also conveyed his “deep sorrow and regret” and ordered police to devise plans for reform, including sweeping institutional improvements.