The Shocking Story of Park Wang-yeol: From Businessman to 'Drug King'

On the evening of the 9th at 9 PM, MBC's 'True Story Exploration' will air an episode titled 'The Man Who Dreamed of Being a King, Park Wang-yeol.'

In March, Park Wang-yeol was extradited to South Korea from a Philippine prison. Park is infamous for brutally murdering three Koreans in a sugarcane field in the Philippines in 2016. The Philippine court sentenced him to 60 years in prison. After spending a decade in a Philippine prison, he seemed to fade from public attention. However, during this time, Park re-emerged with the notorious title of 'Drug King.'

The revelation of Park's past as a seafood distribution businessman in Korea added to the shock of his crimes. He was known for hosting live tuna cutting shows at a local mall and appearing on TV programs. Why did he move to the Philippines and commit such heinous acts? 'True Story Exploration' interviewed an informant, Kim Jae-sung (alias), who was close to Park, calling him 'uncle' before his departure to the Philippines. Jae-sung (alias) revealed that Park's image as a 'diligent businessman' was far from the truth, sharing previously unknown details of his past.

Park Wang-yeol, who spent 10 years in prison for murder in the Philippines, managed to escape twice. His reputation as a 'Drug King' began around the time of his second escape, as he allegedly started distributing large quantities of drugs to Korea via Telegram in 2019. Even after being recaptured, Park continued his drug operations. How did he manage to distribute drugs from a Philippine prison to Korea?

Those who have tracked him for years point to the Philippine prison as the root of the problem. It is said that Korean criminals form a society within the prison, sharing crime techniques and information. After nearly nine years of efforts by the government, Park was finally extradited. However, there is a possibility he might return to the Philippines. Is there a way to ensure Park faces full legal accountability in Korea? 'True Story Exploration' delves into Park's past, his life in prison, and the potential for his return to the Philippines.

Tae Yuna, TenAsia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr