Kang Hoon-sik Urges 'Extraordinary Measures' Following High Schooler Murder

Kang Hoon-sik, Chief of Staff to the President, has instructed the government to prepare special measures to prevent the recurrence of a murder case involving a high school student in Gwangju. The incident has caused significant public sorrow, and attention is growing regarding future safety measures. On the 5th, a 17-year-old female high school student, on her way home in Gwangju, was fatally stabbed by a man in his 20s whom she had never met. Following the incident, statements calling for severe punishment of the perpetrator have been issued, particularly by students in the Gwangju area.

Presiding over a senior staff meeting, Kang Hoon-sik mentioned the students' actions, stating, "Youth have been harmed by adult violence, and the perpetrators are asking if the safety issues of the vulnerable, including young people, are being neglected in our society. We must listen painfully." Ahn Gwi-ryeong, Deputy Spokesperson for the Presidential Office, relayed that Kang considered this a solemn question posed by society.

Kang Hoon-sik conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family and local students. He instructed Jeon Seong-hwan, Senior Secretary for Public Listening and Integration, to meet directly with the family and ensure that government-level condolences and support are provided promptly. Ahn Gwi-ryeong, Deputy Spokesperson for the Presidential Office, confirmed that Jeon had visited the site to deliver the government's condolences.

Kang Hoon-sik has requested the National Police Agency to conduct thorough investigations and implement extraordinary safety measures, including intensified patrols during crime-prone hours and locations, safety diagnostics for school routes, and enhancements to crime prevention facilities. Ahn Gwi-ryeong, Deputy Spokesperson for the Presidential Office, added that these measures aim to prevent young people from being exposed to random crimes. In a post on Facebook, Kang Hoon-sik emphasized that this incident should serve as an opportunity to listen to the voices of youth and focus on creating a safer environment for society.