A South Korean court has sentenced a teacher to life in prison for fatally stabbing an eight-year-old girl, in a case that shocked the nation.
Myeong Jae-wan, 48, killed Kim Hae-neul after luring her into a classroom in the central city of Daejeon in February. Prosecutors had sought the death penalty for Myeong, emphasizing the family's request for a severe punishment. However, the court stated that while 'the risk of reoffending is high, it is difficult to conclude' that execution was warranted.
Myeong claimed she would reflect on her actions for the rest of her life, attributing her poor judgment at the time of the stabbing to mental health issues. While prosecutors noted that she had shown no remorse during the investigation, Myeong submitted letters expressing regret to the court.
Prior to the incident, she had attempted to take a six-month leave of absence due to depression but returned to work after just 20 days, having been deemed fit by a doctor. Reports also indicate that she exhibited violent behavior, including a recent altercation with another teacher.
On the morning of the stabbing, education officials were already investigating Myeong's earlier misconduct when the tragedy occurred. Myeong had reportedly purchased a weapon that day, intending to harm herself along with an innocent child. After the attack, Kim was found with stab wounds in the school, and Myeong was discovered wounded as well, raising concerns about a potential suicide attempt.
The incident has prompted calls from South Korea's leaders for improved safety measures in schools to prevent such egregious acts from recurring. Myeong has also been mandated to wear an electronic tracking device for 30 years following her release.
Myeong Jae-wan, 48, killed Kim Hae-neul after luring her into a classroom in the central city of Daejeon in February. Prosecutors had sought the death penalty for Myeong, emphasizing the family's request for a severe punishment. However, the court stated that while 'the risk of reoffending is high, it is difficult to conclude' that execution was warranted.
Myeong claimed she would reflect on her actions for the rest of her life, attributing her poor judgment at the time of the stabbing to mental health issues. While prosecutors noted that she had shown no remorse during the investigation, Myeong submitted letters expressing regret to the court.
Prior to the incident, she had attempted to take a six-month leave of absence due to depression but returned to work after just 20 days, having been deemed fit by a doctor. Reports also indicate that she exhibited violent behavior, including a recent altercation with another teacher.
On the morning of the stabbing, education officials were already investigating Myeong's earlier misconduct when the tragedy occurred. Myeong had reportedly purchased a weapon that day, intending to harm herself along with an innocent child. After the attack, Kim was found with stab wounds in the school, and Myeong was discovered wounded as well, raising concerns about a potential suicide attempt.
The incident has prompted calls from South Korea's leaders for improved safety measures in schools to prevent such egregious acts from recurring. Myeong has also been mandated to wear an electronic tracking device for 30 years following her release.
