Bodies Found on Jeju Island as Missing Persons Scandal Deepens
Four bodies, including the 37‑year‑old Jang Mi‑ran, were recovered on Jeju Island this week as South Korean police face public criticism for allegedly mishandling missing‑person cases.
Discovery of Bodies
Jang was reported missing in May. Her body was found at a palm‑tree farm roughly 500 metres from her former residence. Experts suspect the death could have been a suicide, though investigations are ongoing.
Police also found the remains of a man in his 60s, who vanished on 28 June. The detective handling the case, Serjeant Bu, was accused of closing the case prematurely and misinforming the family about the victim’s status.
Police Scandal and Reform
Four officers under Serjeant Bu have been placed on administrative leave. President Lee Jae‑Myung ordered an overhaul of the police force after a Cabinet meeting, citing “serious problems” in discipline and public safety responsibilities.
The national police chief was questioned by lawmakers during a hearing, admitting there is a fault in the system. The scandal comes at a time when South Korea has recently transferred investigative powers from prosecutors to the police.
Public Perception and Suicide Rates
South Korea reports 87,000 adults as missing each year, yet 99% are resolved within a month. Analysts suggest that the country’s low crime rate may cause authorities to take missing‑person reports less seriously, despite suicide rates being among the highest worldwide.
The incident has sparked public debate about police power, accountability, and how they address societal issues like suicide.
With reporting by Hosu Lee and Leehyun Choi in Seoul.
