On September 1st, police began investigating the scene in Tokyo's Setagaya Ward where a South Korean woman was fatally attacked. The victim was found to have suffered a fatal slashing.
The following day, September 2nd, a South Korean man was arrested on suspicion of murdering the woman with a knife. The suspect, identified as 30-year-old Park Yong-jun, was apprehended at Haneda Airport in Tokyo. His residence and occupation are currently unknown. Authorities report that he fled the scene of the crime. During the investigation, Park has chosen to remain silent.
The victim, 40-year-old Bang Ji-won, was also a South Korean national. She was attacked outside an office building, sustaining a fatal wound to her neck. Investigations by the Metropolitan Police Department's International Criminal Division revealed that Park and Bang were in a relationship. Park had traveled from South Korea to visit Bang, who resided in Japan.
Bang worked in the apparel industry and was taking photos at a studio in the Nozawa 2-Chome district of Setagaya Ward on the day of the attack. It is believed that the attack occurred after she left the building for a break.
Prior to the incident, Bang had sought assistance from the police. On August 29th, she reported to a police box that Park had become violent when she discussed ending their relationship. The police subsequently instructed Park not to approach Bang and arranged for her to stay at an acquaintance's home. Park initially stated he would travel to Osaka, and the police escorted him to Tokyo Station. However, the next day, Park was observed near Bang's residence. The police again warned him to stay away from Bang and advised him to return to South Korea. They then took him to Narita Airport.
A representative from the personal safety division of the Metropolitan Police Department stated that while measures were taken to ensure the victim's safety based on her wishes, the events leading up to the murder would need to be fully investigated.
5 Comments
Leonardo
“The police department needs to reform what they are doing right now after this incident. They should do better to protect the person, not dismiss the issue.”
Michelangelo
The police didn't seem to take her concerns seriously. More resources and a firmer hand against domestic violence are needed.
Leonardo
He was basically allowed back near her the next day! This is a huge red flag for systemic failure. The police showed incompetence.
Michelangelo
This is a reminder to us to be aware of the signs of domestic violence and to provide support to victims.
Leonardo
The police's actions sound more like babysitting than protecting her. This needs to be thoroughly investigated.