Korean Man Sentenced to 12 Years for Wife's Death After Forced Sex, Assault

A 27-year-old South Korean man, known as the "curling iron man," has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for the death of his second wife. He was found guilty of forcing her into sexual acts and repeatedly striking her abdomen, leading to severe injuries including a ruptured pancreas. The Seoul Central District Court handed down the sentence on August 28, less than the 20 years sought by prosecutors.

The Seoul Central District Court's Criminal Division 26 delivered the verdict on August 28 against defendant Ryu (류) (27) on charges including injury resulting in death, coercion, and violating the Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Sexual Crimes (filming using cameras or similar devices).

Ryu was accused of forcing his wife, identified as A, to perform specific sexual acts for over 40 minutes on February 1 this year. During this time, he allegedly punched and kicked her abdomen repeatedly, causing severe injuries such as a ruptured pancreas, which ultimately led to her death.

The court found Ryu guilty of coercion, citing video evidence showing A in clear distress while Ryu threatened her with phrases like "you'll get hit" and "do you want to be kicked," demanding she continue the so-called "practice."

He was also convicted of injury resulting in death. Autopsy results revealed severe injuries to A, including ruptured mesentery and pancreas, and multiple fractured ribs.

The judge stated, "It can be concluded that the defendant repeatedly and violently struck the victim's upper abdomen with his feet or fists." The court determined that repeatedly inflicting severe impact on the abdomen was sufficient to foresee a potential fatal outcome.

Ryu's defense, claiming A might have sustained injuries by hitting stairs or railings, was rejected by the court as inconsistent with the autopsy findings.

However, the court acquitted Ryu on the charge of "filming using cameras or similar devices." The court found insufficient evidence to prove the filming was against A's will, as she had set up her phone and started recording herself.

The judge remarked, "The defendant, to satisfy his own sexual desires, forced the victim into related acts and repeatedly and violently struck her abdomen, ultimately leading to her death." The court deemed Ryu's culpability significant, considering the nature of the crime and its consequences.

The court also noted Ryu's previous record of aggravated assault and a history of domestic violence against his ex-wife in a prior marriage.

Reportedly, Ryu had previously tied up and gagged his ex-wife before burning her thigh with a heated curling iron, leaving approximately six burns. This incident earned him the moniker "curling iron man."

The court ultimately sentenced Ryu to 12 years in prison, considering his lack of remorse, attempts to evade responsibility, and the suspected disposal of home surveillance equipment after the incident. Additionally, the victim's family has not forgiven him.