Daegu Stalking Murder: How a Protected Woman Was Failed—And the National Outcry That Followed

The Shocking Incident: Woman Killed Despite Police Protection

Did you know that a woman in her 50s, already under police protection due to stalking, was murdered in her own home in Daegu? Early on June 10, 2025, the suspect, a man in his 40s, reportedly climbed a gas pipe to the sixth floor of her apartment, bypassing an AI-powered facial recognition CCTV system installed for her safety. He fatally stabbed her and fled the scene. Her family discovered her at 3:30 a.m., and she was pronounced dead an hour later. No signs of theft were found, and the police quickly identified the stalker as the prime suspect.

How Did the Suspect Evade Capture for Four Days?

After the crime, the suspect used a car registered under an acquaintance’s name to escape Daegu, heading toward the mountainous areas of Sejong and Cheongju. He abandoned his phone and vehicle to avoid digital tracking, then paid for taxis in cash. Police deployed over 180 officers, search dogs, drones, and even divers to comb through forests and reservoirs, but the suspect skillfully avoided detection by hiding in remote areas and using burner phones or public payphones. The manhunt gripped the nation, with local governments warning residents to avoid forests and report any suspicious activity.

Failures of the System: Protective Measures Under Scrutiny

The victim had previously reported the suspect for stalking and threats with a weapon. Although police classified her as high-risk and provided her with a smart watch for emergencies, she had recently returned it. Authorities also installed a smart CCTV system at her residence, which was supposed to alert both the victim and the police if the suspect approached. However, the suspect wore a mask and used the building’s exterior to bypass the camera, rendering the system ineffective. This failure, combined with the court’s earlier refusal to detain the suspect—despite police requests—sparked outrage across Korea.

The Arrest: A Desperate Fugitive Cornered by Circumstance

Four days after the murder, the suspect was arrested in front of a warehouse in Sejong, thanks to a tip-off that he would be meeting an acquaintance. He was reportedly seeking cash, having run out of money during his time on the run. Police found him disheveled and unshaven, riding a motorcycle without a license plate. He did not resist arrest and refused to answer questions about his motive. The suspect was promptly transferred to Daegu for further investigation.

Community and Online Reactions: Anger, Grief, and Demands for Change

Korean online communities like TheQoo, Nate Pann, Instiz, and DC Inside exploded with anger and grief. Many users criticized the court’s decision to deny the initial arrest warrant and questioned the effectiveness of the police’s protective measures. Some comments reflected deep frustration, such as 'What’s the point of police protection if it doesn’t work?' and 'This is a failure of the entire justice system.' Others expressed fear and solidarity, calling for stronger laws and better support for stalking victims. There were also heated debates about the responsibilities of law enforcement and the courts.

Cultural Context: Why This Case Resonates So Deeply in Korea

For international readers, it’s important to understand that Korea has seen a string of high-profile stalking and gender-based violence cases in recent years. The government has tried to introduce smart technologies—like facial recognition CCTVs and emergency smart watches—to protect at-risk individuals. However, this case has exposed the limitations of such measures when not combined with decisive legal action and continuous support. The public’s reaction reflects a growing demand for real reform, not just technological fixes.

Media Coverage and Blog Discussions: A National Conversation

Major news outlets like Yonhap, Korea Herald, JoongAng Daily, and Chosun Biz provided real-time updates, while Naver and Tistory blogs offered deep dives into the timeline, police efforts, and systemic failures. Bloggers highlighted the need for more proactive victim support, better communication between courts and police, and a cultural shift in how stalking is handled. Many posts included timelines, analysis of the suspect’s escape, and emotional tributes to the victim.

What Comes Next? Demands for Reform and Accountability

The Daegu stalking murder has become a lightning rod for debates about women’s safety, police accountability, and judicial responsibility in South Korea. Lawmakers are under pressure to review the criteria for protective custody and the use of technology in victim support. There are calls for stricter penalties for stalkers and for courts to take police recommendations more seriously. As the investigation continues, the public is watching closely, demanding not only justice for the victim but lasting changes to prevent another tragedy.