Four individuals in their 20s are facing prosecution for a 2018 gang rape of a 14-year-old girl, which was filmed and illegally shared on social media. The case resurfaced seven years later, drawing attention for both the severity of the crime and the delayed legal proceedings.
The Daejeon District Court, 12th Criminal Division (Presiding Judge Kim Byung-man), held the sentencing hearing for the main perpetrator A (22, age 15 at the time), who was arrested and charged with multiple counts including violation of the Sexual Violence Punishment Act (special rape), special injury, and aggravated crime-related intimidation. Three accomplices, including B (22, age 15 at the time), were also tried, though they were not initially detained.
The prosecution requested a 14-year prison sentence for A, along with 80 hours of sexual violence treatment, mandatory disclosure of personal information, and a 10-year employment restriction. Co-defendants received 3–7 years imprisonment, 40 hours of sexual violence treatment, disclosure of personal information, and employment restrictions of 5–10 years, according to their level of involvement.
The defendants allegedly attacked C (then 14 years old) in a public restroom on August 28, 2018, filming the assault and broadcasting it via social media. A reportedly used dangerous objects to inflict harm, recorded the sexual assault, and threatened to distribute the footage if the victim reported the incident.
The victim initially refrained from reporting the crime due to fear of retaliation, filing a police complaint about six years later, in February 2024. Although police initially dismissed key charges, the prosecution requested a reinvestigation, leading to further investigation and additional charges related to special rape and intimidation.
The prosecution emphasized, “Even after a significant amount of time, A continued to contact and verbally abuse the victim, constituting secondary harm. While he may appear to accept responsibility under custody, sincerity cannot be confirmed. Strict punishment is essential to uphold the law.”
In his final statement, A pleaded for leniency, saying, “I failed to comprehend the lasting scars my actions caused the victim. I will do my utmost to aid in recovery.” His attorney echoed this, acknowledging initial denial of the charges and asking for consideration of genuine remorse. Co-defendants also expressed regret and offered apologies for their past actions.
The victim, C, addressed the court, stating: “I have endured many hardships. There were times I wanted to give up, but I will move forward with my future based on the outcome of this trial. Please remember this when deciding the sentence.”
The sentencing hearing for all four defendants is scheduled for December 22, 2025.
Sources: 네이트 뉴스
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