Man Who Stalked and Murdered Woman by Climbing Apartment Pipes Caught After Four Days

Background of the Crime

In early June 2025, a tragic incident unfolded in Daegu, South Korea, where a 48-year-old man, identified as A, stalked a woman who was under police protection due to previous threats. Despite the victim receiving safety measures such as an AI facial recognition CCTV and a smart watch for emergency alerts, the suspect managed to bypass these protections. On June 10 at around 3:30 a.m., A climbed the external gas pipes of the victim's sixth-floor apartment and entered her home, where he fatally stabbed her. The victim was transported to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead about an hour later.

Manhunt and Capture

Following the murder, the suspect fled Daegu by car and later switched to a taxi, heading towards Sejong City. He was believed to have hidden in a mountain area near his ancestral grave in Bu-gang-myeon, Sejong. Police launched a massive manhunt involving hundreds of officers from Daegu, Sejong, and Chungbuk police departments, using drones, search dogs, and even divers to search nearby reservoirs after finding a note suggesting possible suicide. On June 14 at 10:45 p.m., the suspect was found and arrested peacefully in front of a friend's warehouse in Jochiwon-eup, Sejong City. He was transported back to Daegu for investigation.

Prior Incidents and Legal Context

The suspect had a history of threatening the victim with a weapon about a month prior and was under investigation for stalking-related offenses. Despite police requests, the court denied a detention warrant, citing that the suspect was cooperating with the investigation. The victim had returned the smart watch issued for her protection before the murder, which limited the police's ability to monitor emergency signals. This case has sparked public debate on the adequacy of legal measures and court decisions regarding stalking and protection orders in South Korea.

Community and Police Response

The police urged the public to avoid isolated mountain areas and report suspicious individuals during the search. Sejong City even advised residents to limit outdoor activities during the manhunt. Online communities such as Naver and various Korean forums expressed outrage over the failure to prevent the crime despite prior warnings. Many called for stricter laws and enforcement against stalking and better victim protection systems. The police have stated they will apply for an arrest warrant for murder after completing their investigation into the suspect's motives and circumstances.

Cultural and Legal Insights

In South Korea, stalking crimes have gained increasing attention, especially after several high-profile cases. The legal framework includes the Stalking Crime Punishment Act, but enforcement and judicial decisions sometimes face criticism for leniency. Victims often rely on technological safety measures, but as this case shows, determined offenders may find ways to circumvent them. The public discourse reflects a growing demand for reform in how stalking cases are handled, including faster judicial responses and more robust victim support.

Ongoing Investigation and Public Safety Measures

Authorities continue to investigate the full circumstances surrounding the murder and the suspect's actions during his flight. The arrest has lifted the outdoor activity restrictions in Sejong City. Police have emphasized the importance of community vigilance and swift reporting of suspicious behavior to prevent similar tragedies. This case serves as a stark reminder of the challenges in protecting stalking victims and the need for comprehensive safety and legal strategies.