"Friend Killer" Jeong Jae-hwan Claims "I Don't Remember," While Bereaved Family Says, "My Son Died Worse Than Roadkill"

Jeong Jae-hwan (24), who was indicted on charges of stabbing his friend to death dozens of times with a weapon while drunk, admitted to the acts in court but denied any intent to commit murder, claiming he could not remember the situation at the time.

The 12th Criminal Division of the Daegu District Court (Presiding Judge Jeong Han-geun) held the second trial today (the 11th) for Jeong Jae-hwan (24), who is detained and indicted on charges including murder.

Jeong's defense counsel stated that while the defendant acknowledges the actual acts regarding the charges of murder, injury, and theft, he lacked the intent to kill at the time of the crime.

Jeong's attorney said, "It is not that the defendant claims he did not kill the victim, but that he was intoxicated and has no recollection of the situation at the time."

When the court asked Jeong whether he shared the same opinion as his defense counsel, Jeong briefly answered, "Yes."

The court pointed out, "In principle, the mere circumstance of having no memory does not mean there was no awareness or intent regarding the crime," adding, "Given that the defendant also engaged in actions such as taking photos after the crime, we will examine all circumstances of the offense to make a judgment."

The victim's legal representative argued that a psychological evaluation is unnecessary and that the defendant's mental or physical impairment must not be recognized.

The victim's lawyer stated, "The defendant is claiming extreme intoxication and has requested a psychological evaluation in order to receive a reduced sentence," adding, "It must be regarded that he knew he was harming another person even in a state of extreme intoxication."

The court stated, "Checking the defendant's psychological state is very important," and added, "Regardless of whether mental or physical impairment is recognized, it is necessary to check the defendant's condition through an evaluation, so we will review the records and then determine whether an additional psychological evaluation is necessary."

A large number of bereaved family members and friends of the victim attended the courtroom on this day.

During the proceedings, spectators sobbed or shed tears.

The victim's father said, "My son was an ordinary student. Except for the period he spent serving in the military, I raised him entirely in my arms," adding, "Such a child died worse than an animal hit by roadkill on the street."

He appealed, saying, "My son died such a gruesome death that I couldn't even hold his hand once," and "If one commits a crime, they must receive punishment."

The court decided to proceed with the next trial scheduled for October 2 as a preparation hearing.

Jeong was sent to trial on charges of murdering his friend by stabbing him dozens of times with a weapon for unknown reasons while drinking with friends, including the victim, at his home in Hayang-eup, Gyeongsan-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, at around 3:40 a.m. on July 4.

He was also indicted on charges including assault (injury) for attacking another friend who was present that day.

Investigative authorities also applied charges of theft against Jeong for stealing two banana-flavored milks (valued at 3,600 KRW) from a nearby convenience store after the crime.
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.