Justice Minister Orders Thorough Investigation into Director Kim Chang-min's Death

Amid growing controversy surrounding the death of director Kim Chang-min, South Korea's Justice Minister Jeong Seong-ho has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident.

On the 7th, Minister Jeong expressed his stance on the case via his social media, stating, "The inadequate initial investigation has caused great pain to the bereaved family and the public. The full details of the incident must be clarified."

He further explained, "The victim, a young and aspiring film director, was visiting a restaurant with his child with developmental disabilities when he was brutally attacked by a group, leading to his death." He highlighted the family's concerns, noting, "Despite CCTV footage showing at least six perpetrators, only one was initially charged. It was only after the family's protests and the prosecution's request for further investigation that another suspect was identified, pointing to deficiencies in the initial investigation."

Jeong also addressed the distressing reality that "due to repeated dismissals of arrest warrants, the perpetrators are freely roaming the streets, causing significant mental anguish and insecurity for the family." He expressed his sympathy, stating, "It is difficult to fathom the grief of the family, who not only lost a loved one but also faced an investigation that fell short of expectations."

Following the transfer of the case from the Guri Police Station, the Namyangju branch of the Uijeongbu District Prosecutors' Office has formed a dedicated investigation team to conduct a supplementary investigation. Minister Jeong assured, "The Ministry of Justice will ensure that no injustice remains for the deceased victim and his family. We will thoroughly address the gaps in the initial investigation to uncover the truth and ensure that the perpetrators face strict punishment."

He concluded by expressing his condolences, "I pray for the soul of the late director Kim Chang-min, who shared the warmth of life through organ donation before his passing."

Director Kim Chang-min passed away after being assaulted at a restaurant in Guri, Gyeonggi Province, in October last year. He was dining with his son, who has developmental disabilities, when an altercation with a group led to a brutal attack. He was left in a brain-dead state due to a cerebral hemorrhage and ultimately did not recover.

Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr