Minister Won criticizes suspect's brutal conduct via social media; pledges full review of victim protection and support systems

Jang Yun-gi, 23, facing murder and other charges, is transferred from Seobu Police Station in Seo-gu, Gwangju, to prosecutors on May 14. [Newsis]
Jang Yun-gi, 23, facing murder and other charges, is transferred from Seobu Police Station in Seo-gu, Gwangju, to prosecutors on May 14. [Newsis]

By Ahn Hyo-jung, The Herald Business

Minister of Gender Equality and Family Won Min-kyung strongly condemned the indictment of Jang Yun-gi, who killed a high school girl he did not know in Gwangju, on charges of murder through rape under the Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Sexual Violence Crimes.

Won said Monday through her social media account that she feels "deep outrage and devastation," adding that "severe punishment for perpetrator Jang Yun-gi is the minimum justice owed to an innocent soul who was taken from us."

Won also referenced the victim's family, who the previous day had publicly revealed the victim's name and face, saying "our society must respond to that desperate cry." She added that "there can never be any tolerance or forgiveness for heinous crimes targeting society's most vulnerable — including young people and women."

Won also expressed her commitment to strengthening the safety net. "We will review the victim protection and support system and reinforce prevention efforts so that our precious children and women no longer live in fear in their daily lives," she said. She added that she would "do everything in our power to build a safety net with no blind spots, until everyone can enjoy a safe everyday life."


an@heraldcorp.com