Daegu Stalking Murder: How a 'Protected Woman' Was Killed and the Fugitive Was Caught After Four Days on the Run

A Chilling Crime That Shocked Korea

Did you know that in June 2025, a shocking murder in Daegu reignited fierce debates about women's safety and stalking laws in South Korea? A man in his 40s, identified as A, killed a woman who was under police protection due to previous stalking threats. The incident began in the early hours of June 10, when A climbed a gas pipe to the sixth floor of an apartment in Daegu’s Dalseo District, broke into the victim’s home, and fatally attacked her. This case immediately drew national attention, not only for its brutality but also for the glaring failure of protective measures that were supposed to keep the victim safe.
According to police, the victim had been receiving official protection after reporting persistent stalking. However, A managed to bypass security, prompting widespread criticism of the effectiveness of Korea’s victim protection system.

The Fugitive’s Four-Day Escape

After committing the crime, A fled the scene using a car registered under an acquaintance’s name, heading to a rural mountain area in Sejong City. He abandoned the vehicle, leaving his phone behind to avoid tracking, and traveled by taxi to his father’s grave, paying in cash to avoid leaving digital traces. For several days, A evaded authorities by navigating rural paths and hiding in the mountains, exploiting his familiarity with the area from his youth. Police deployed extensive resources, including underwater searches in nearby reservoirs and surveillance of local roads, but A left almost no trace. It wasn’t until he attempted to contact an acquaintance for cash that police, acting on a tip, set up a stakeout and arrested him near a container warehouse in Jochiwon, Sejong.

How the Arrest Unfolded

The arrest happened late at night on June 14. A, exhausted and desperate for money, arrived at the warehouse on an unregistered motorcycle. Surveillance footage shows him wearing a cap and mask, head bowed as he was taken into custody. During questioning, he admitted to the murder and explained that he had been hiding in the mountains, physically and mentally drained, before deciding to come down and seek help. Police quickly transferred him back to Daegu for further investigation. Authorities have stated that A acted alone, with no evidence of accomplices during his escape.

Community Reactions: Outrage and Fear

On major Korean online communities like Theqoo, Nate Pann, Instiz, and DC Inside, the case has sparked intense anger and fear. Many users expressed frustration that even with police protection, the victim was not safe. Comments like 'What’s the point of protection if this can happen?' and 'The system failed her completely' have gone viral. Others demanded stricter stalking laws and harsher penalties, with some calling for the resignation of officials responsible for victim protection. A few users shared personal stories of experiencing stalking, highlighting how common and terrifying the issue remains in Korea. Some also criticized the media for focusing on the fugitive’s escape rather than the systemic failures that led to the tragedy.

Cultural Context: Stalking, Safety, and the Korean Justice System

To understand why this case has hit such a nerve, overseas readers need to know that stalking and violence against women have been major social issues in Korea for years. Despite recent legal reforms, many believe the justice system still does not take threats against women seriously enough. Police protection often consists of periodic check-ins or installing surveillance cameras, but these measures have repeatedly proven insufficient. The Daegu case echoes previous high-profile incidents, such as the Sindang Station murder, where victims under protection were still attacked by their stalkers. Public trust in the system has been eroded, with many women expressing that they do not feel safe reporting threats.

Media and Blog Coverage: Calls for Change

Korean news outlets, including SBS, Newsis, Yonhap, and Daum, have published dozens of articles dissecting the timeline of the crime, the police response, and the shortcomings of the protective measures. Blog posts on Naver and Tistory have gone viral, with writers sharing their anger and demanding reforms. One popular Tistory blogger wrote, 'How many more women have to die before the system changes?' Another Naver post detailed the sequence of events and criticized the lack of real-time monitoring for high-risk victims. Several bloggers have also highlighted the need for better training for police officers and more resources for victim support.

Fan and Fandom Insights: Why the Case Resonates Abroad

International K-pop and K-drama fans are no strangers to stories of obsessive fans and stalking incidents, but this case has struck a particular chord due to its tragic outcome and the perceived inadequacy of the response. Many global fans have expressed solidarity with Korean women, sharing the news on social media and calling for international attention to Korea’s stalking laws. Some fandoms, especially those with female idols, have used the incident to advocate for better security for celebrities and ordinary citizens alike. The case has become a rallying point for discussions about gender violence and the need for systemic change, both in Korea and abroad.

What’s Next: Legal and Social Implications

As of June 16, A has been formally charged with murder and is in custody awaiting trial. The case has prompted renewed calls for legislative reform, including stricter enforcement of restraining orders, real-time GPS monitoring for offenders, and increased funding for victim protection. Lawmakers and advocacy groups are pushing for urgent changes, while the public continues to demand accountability from police and government officials. The tragedy has also led to a surge in calls to women’s hotlines and support centers, as many seek advice on how to stay safe.

Conclusion: A Turning Point for Women’s Safety in Korea?

The Daegu stalking murder is more than just a crime story—it’s a wake-up call for Korean society and anyone concerned about women’s safety. The outpouring of grief and anger online reflects a deep-seated frustration with a system that too often fails to protect those most at risk. As the investigation continues and the trial unfolds, many are watching to see if this tragedy will finally lead to meaningful change. For international readers, this case is a stark reminder that the fight for women’s safety is far from over, both in Korea and around the world.