Seoul subway murder suspect says what he did was 'truly crazy'

Social Affairs

Published: 21 Sep. 2022, 11:04 Updated: 21 Sep. 2022, 14:49

Seoul subway murder suspect says what he did was 'truly crazy'

Jeon Joo-hwan, the 31-year-old suspect in the subway murder case, speaks to reporters at Seoul Namdaemun Police Station in Jung District, central Seoul on Wednesday. [YONHAP]

The suspect in the shocking subway murder case said Wednesday he "has done a truly crazy thing" as police referred him to the prosecution for further investigation and indictment.

The Seoul Metro employee was apprehended a week earlier at Sindang Station on Line No. 2 after stabbing a female colleague in her 20s to death in the subway station's ladies' room.

The case shocked the nation, as it was revealed the killing took place one day before a court was set to sentence him on charges of stalking her. The two had known each other since entering Seoul Metro the same year.

Police have since disclosed his identity as Jeon Joo-hwan, 31, and released a photo of him, a decision reserved for horrendous crimes.

"I am really sorry," Jeon said in front of reporters at Seoul Namdaemun Police Station before police transferred him to the Seoul Central District Prosecutors Office.

"I have done a truly crazy thing," Jeon said, repeating that he was sorry in response to reporters' questions, including whether he premeditated the crime.

Police have pressed a revenge murder charge against Jeon, a crime punishable by at least 10 years in prison, whereas murder is subject to a prison sentence of five years or more.

Yonhap