Police Suspect Murderer Knew Victim Before Attack in Gwangju

Police in Gwangju are investigating Jang Yun-gi, a 23-year-old man accused of murdering a high school student, for evidence suggesting he knew the victim before the crime. The special investigation team announced on July 15 that they are pursuing leads indicating Jang had a prior, one-sided acquaintance with the victim, identified as 16-year-old Lee Chae-won.

Investigators discovered circumstances from a recovered spare mobile phone that suggest Jang intentionally targeted Lee. While Lee was unaware of Jang, the evidence points to a planned motive. The special investigation team stated that specific details cannot be disclosed due to the ongoing investigation and concerns about secondary victimization, but they will release further information once facts are confirmed.

This revelation follows Jang's admission in his second court hearing on July 13 that the murder was committed with sexual intent. Previously, when questioned by reporters on May 14 about whether he knew the victim was a high school student when he committed the crime, Jang had claimed he did not. The investigation is also examining why the initial police team handling the case did not pursue these early indications of a planned crime.

The Gwangju District Prosecutors' Office is continuing its investigation into Jang Yun-gi, focusing on uncovering evidence tampering allegations alongside the murder investigation. The details surrounding Jang's alleged prior knowledge of the victim and the potential premeditation are central to the ongoing legal proceedings.

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The victim did not know Jang Yun-gi, but there are circumstances that can be seen as evidence that Jang intentionally targeted her. This is a matter under investigation, and we cannot disclose specific details due to the risk of secondary damage.