Police are tracking a primary suspect who has fled overseas after the body of a North Korean defector in her 30s was found in an apartment in Paju, Gyeonggi Province.

The Paju Police Station in Gyeonggi Province stated that at around 10:30 a.m. yesterday (September 9), a woman in her 30s, surnamed A, was found dead inside an apartment in Wadong-dong, Paju.

Police had launched a joint response with fire authorities to check on A after failing to get in touch with her. Upon forcing open the front door and entering the home, they discovered A's body.

At the time of the discovery, the body was reportedly in a significant state of decomposition.

Police detected signs of foul play while inspecting the scene and launched an investigation. An autopsy opinion also reportedly confirmed indications of homicide.

Police estimate that the crime took place around the beginning of last month.

Authorities have identified a man in his 30s, surnamed B, who is believed to be A's romantic partner, as the prime suspect and launched a manhunt.

B was found to have left the country following the incident.

Police plan to request an Interpol Red Notice as soon as an arrest warrant for B is issued.

(Photo: Provided by Yonhap News TV, Yonhap News)