Ahead of the first trial for defendant Kim So-young, who is accused of handing men drinks laced with drugs at a motel and causing their deaths, a victim's family urged that a death sentence be imposed.
On the 9th, the bereaved family member of the second victim, identified as A, held a press conference in front of the general civil service office at the Seoul Northern District Court at about 3:19 p.m. and said, "(Kim So-young) was a person who habitually committed theft and lies in everyday conduct," adding, "We earnestly ask the court to sentence death."
A said, "Kim So-young crushed at least 50 pills at home, mixed them into a large-capacity hangover cure, and carried out a premeditated crime," and claimed, "In school days, at facilities, and even during secondhand transactions, theft was habitual."
Attorney Nam Eon-ho of Law Firm Vincent, the legal representative for the bereaved family, also said, "During the investigation, there were indications of searching for additional targets, and after the crime, there was scene fabrication, destruction of evidence, and even the creation of an alibi," adding, "This is the most cold-blooded, premeditated serial crime our society has experienced recently."
They also voiced concern about the secondary harm continuing after the incident. Nam said, "Online, people are praising the perpetrator's appearance or baselessly blaming the victim," adding, "I want to ask whether this is something the bereaved family should have to endure."
The bereaved family filed a damages suit for 31 million won against Kim So-young with the Seoul Northern District Court on the 6th. They sought 1 million won against Kim's parents. The family said the total damage was estimated at about 1.1 billion won but explained that they lowered the claim amount in consideration of the perpetrator's ability to pay.
Also on the 7th, through their legal representative, they submitted a petition to the Seoul Northern District Court. The submitted petitions total 94, including those from the bereaved family and acquaintances.
Meanwhile, the first hearing of the first trial for Kim So-young will be held at the Seoul Northern District Court from 3:45 p.m. on the day.