Photos showing the late director Kim Chang-min in the ER after a group assault have reignited public anger and fueled calls for a reinvestigation.
Images aired by JTBC on April 6 captured Kim being transferred to the hospital shortly after the attack. He had severe bruising around his eyes, nose bridge, and temples, with bleeding inside his ear. Even while unconscious, tears were visible at the corner of his eye. The pictures were reportedly taken by his father, who rushed to the hospital.
With video from the incident also made public, criticism over an inadequate initial probe intensified. Prosecutors have now formed a dedicated task force and begun a supplementary investigation. The bereaved family is demanding a thorough review of the entire case, pleading for the truth behind what they describe as an unjust death.
On April 7, Justice Minister Jeong Seong-ho said, “We will fully uncover the facts of the case and ensure the perpetrators face stern punishment.” He added that prosecutors have created a special team and moved quickly to bolster the investigation.
Kim was assaulted last October at a restaurant in Guri, Gyeonggi Province, after a dispute while dining with his son. He was taken to the hospital but his condition worsened, and he was declared brain-dead. He later passed away after donating organs that saved four lives.
The investigation process also drew controversy. CCTV showed at least six assailants, but only one was initially identified, with more suspects named later―prompting criticism of a weak early response. A court also rejected arrest warrants for two suspects, citing fixed residences and no risk of evidence destruction, leading to an investigation without detention.
Reports that the suspects are still living in the area have heightened local anxiety. After receiving the case, prosecutors began a supplementary probe and say they plan to accelerate efforts to hold all involved parties accountable.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)