Court upholds life sentence for man in murder case.

Life Sentence Upheld for Stalker Who Murdered Woman

Mugshot of Seo Dong-ha [YONHAP]

Background of the Case

A Daegu high court has firmly upheld a **life sentence** for **35-year-old Seo Dong-ha**, who was convicted of brutally murdering a woman he had been stalking and attempting to kill her mother last November. During a crucial hearing held on Wednesday, the court dismissed the appeals from both the prosecution and the defendant, reinforcing the severe nature of the crimes committed.

Initial Trial and Sentencing

In the initial trial, Seo was handed a **life sentence** for charges including **retaliatory murder**. The court highlighted that despite Seo’s attempt to show remorse by depositing a **significant amount of money** with the court, the victim’s family firmly rejected this gesture and demanded a heavier punishment. The appellate court stated, “The deposit does not constitute new mitigating evidence that would warrant a change in sentencing.”

The Appellate Court’s Ruling

According to the court, the reasons for appeal presented by both sides had already been sufficiently deliberated in the lower court. Seo was indicted after fatally stabbing the woman in her apartment in Gumi, and his violent actions nearly claimed the life of her mother, who was present during the attack but managed to survive.

Prior Criminal History

It’s important to note that Seo had a history of **criminal behavior**, including **property damage, breaking and entering, and stalking** the same woman. After being reported to the police for his previous crimes, he **retaliated** with a deadly plan to eliminate her.

Judicial Condemnation

Before concluding their verdict, the court delivered a **scathing condemnation** of Seo’s actions: “The victim was brutally stabbed to death with a weapon wielded by the defendant. Her life was taken in a senseless act of violence.” The emotional toll was further underscored by the fact that the victim’s mother, hospitalized in an **intensive care unit**, could not even attend her daughter’s funeral.

Conclusion

The upheld life sentence for Seo Dong-ha serves as a powerful reminder of the devastating consequences of **domestic violence and stalking**. The refusal to mitigate his punishment underscores the legal system’s commitment to justice for victims and their families.

Translated from the JoongAng Ilbo using generative AI and edited by Korea JoongAng Daily staff.
BY JEONG JAE-HONG [[email protected]]