A 23-year-old South Korean man accused of fatally stabbing a teenage student in Gwangju reportedly attempted to prevent authorities from publicly disclosing his identity after his arrest.
According to reports from South Korean media, the suspect — identified as Jang Yoon Gi — was officially named by the Gwangju Metropolitan Police Agency on May 14, 2026, following a review by a police committee. His name, age and mugshot were uploaded onto the agency’s website and are expected to remain there until Jun. 15.
The case has shocked South Korea due to the random nature of the attack and the disturbing details uncovered during investigations. Authorities said the suspect initially objected to the release of his identity, which delayed the publication despite the review committee approving the disclosure earlier on May 8.
Teen Girl Killed Near University Area In Gwangju
The fatal stabbing took place shortly after midnight on May 5 near a university district in Gwangju.
Police said the victim, a 17-year-old secondary school student, was attacked from behind while walking in the area. Another 17-year-old male student who rushed over after hearing screams was also injured during the incident.
Investigators later confirmed that the suspect did not know either victim personally. Reports from local media stated that Jang had apparently noticed the female student moments before the attack and targeted her at random.
The incident has sparked renewed discussions in South Korea over violent crime prevention, mental health awareness and public safety measures around university districts and residential areas. The case has also drawn significant online attention across Asia due to the suspect’s alleged motive and behaviour after the killing.
Suspect Allegedly Cleaned Himself Up After Attack
South Korean media reported that after the stabbing, the suspect entered a nearby restroom to wash his hands before later visiting a self-service laundromat to clean and dry his clothes.
During police questioning, Jang allegedly told investigators that he had suicidal thoughts and wanted to “take someone with me” before ending his own life.
Authorities said the suspect claimed the attack was not pre-planned and that he decided to commit the crime while contemplating suicide. However, investigators later uncovered evidence suggesting he had earlier intended to target another woman.
Former Female Colleague Was Allegedly Original Target
The Korea Times reported that Jang had allegedly prepared to murder a former female colleague before the fatal attack occurred.
The woman, a Vietnamese national in her 20s, had reportedly filed a stalking complaint against him just two days earlier on May 3. Police believe the suspect became enraged after failing to locate her and later redirected his anger toward the two teenagers.
The case has since been transferred to prosecutors for further legal proceedings.
When approached by reporters, Jang reportedly only said, “I am sorry,” before refusing to answer further questions.