The Special Investigation Team for the Late Sergeant Lee Yeram Holds Inauguration Ceremony and Begins Investigation

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyung-min] The special prosecution team led by Ahn Mi-young (55, 25th Judicial Research and Training Institute), assigned to the case of the late Air Force Sergeant Lee Yeram's death, held a plaque ceremony at their office in Migeun-dong, Seodaemun-gu on the 7th and began their work.

Special Prosecutor Ahn stated, "We will do our best to uncover the truth related to Sergeant Lee's death within the legally granted investigation period," adding, "While adhering to the due process and evidence principles stipulated by the Constitution and the Criminal Procedure Act, we will promptly find objective evidence and strictly investigate to hold those responsible for illegal acts accountable based on that evidence." She continued, "Through this special investigation, I hope that such a tragedy will never be repeated within the military." The special prosecution team is expected to summon and investigate related parties once the review of materials is completed. The team was formed 381 days after Sergeant Lee took her own life on May 21 of last year. This is the 14th special prosecution in the history of our constitutional government.

The Ministry of National Defense, which initially investigated the case, filed criminal charges against 25 related individuals in October last year, but only 15 were prosecuted. The command, including Jeon Ik-su, the Air Force Legal Office Chief who supervised and commanded the 20th Wing Military Police and military prosecutors responsible for the initial investigation, was not prosecuted due to insufficient evidence. Sergeant Lee was transferred to the 15th Wing after being sexually assaulted, but even in the new unit, she suffered reprimands and harsh treatment, leading to her extreme choice after three days. However, personnel from this unit were also not prosecuted due to insufficient evidence. Special Prosecutor Ahn said, "Even after the prosecution of 15 individuals, various suspicions regarding inadequate investigation, secondary victimization, concealment, cover-up, and coercion by investigative agencies and their command continued to be raised," adding, "Therefore, a special prosecutor was appointed, and the special prosecution team was tasked with uncovering the truth of the case."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.