Prosecutors Publicize Mug Shot of Suspect in Murder of Estranged Girlfriend

SUWON - The Suwon District Prosecutors Office released the mug shot and identity of Kim Re-ah, 26, who has been charged with the murder of his 21-year-old estranged girlfriend and the serious injury of her mother. The incident occurred on March 25 in Hwaseong, about 30 kilometers south of Seoul.

According to Yonhap News Agency, this marks the first instance of releasing a suspect’s photograph and personal details following the enactment of the so-called mug shot disclosure bill passed by the National Assembly last October. The law, which took effect in January, allows for the release of mug shots for suspects involved in heinous crimes without their consent, broadening the scope of crimes for which suspect photos can be disclosed. Kim allegedly committed the murder after his girlfriend announced her intention to end their relationship due to his frequent acts of dating violence, during a visit by her mother who was attempting to mediate their breakup.