Killed 10 Months After Two 112 Emergency Calls Went Nowhere

Despite two 112 emergency calls, police closed their investigation after the victim, a woman in her 40s, stated she did not wish to press charges against her ex-boyfriend — who killed her about 10 months later. B had made two 112 calls while reporting stalking during her lifetime, and reportedly returned the smartwatch she had been given as an emergency protective measure, saying she had 'reconciled' with him. About 10 months before the incident, police protection ended when the case was dropped without being forwarded to prosecutors. It was confirmed that no post-monitoring procedure was carried out after the victim returned the smartwatch and expressed her wish not to press charges.

The investigation began when B's family found her dead and reported it around 2 p.m. on the 24th. Police made an emergency arrest of A at an accommodation in Gangneung, Gangwon Province, at around 7:40 a.m. on the 25th, about 18 hours later. A removed the SIM card from his mobile phone immediately after the crime and headed for Incheon Airport. However, he was unable to board a flight due to an exit ban and his expired passport, and is believed to have fled to Gangneung, Gangwon Province.

During his transfer, A reportedly admitted to the crime, saying "I did wrong." Police plan to further investigate the motive and circumstances of the crime before seeking an arrest warrant. Police are carrying out follow-up measures, including coordinating with relevant agencies to support the bereaved family.