Four individuals in their 20s are facing trial for a 2018 gang rape of a 14-year-old girl, which was filmed and illegally shared on social media. The case resurfaced seven years later, attracting attention both for the severity of the crime and the delays in the legal process.
The Daejeon District Court, 12th Criminal Division (Presiding Judge Kim Byung-man), held the sentencing hearing for main offender A (22, 15 years old at the time), who was arrested and charged with multiple counts, including violation of the Sexual Violence Punishment (Special Rape) Law, special injury, and crime-related aggravated intimidation. Three accomplices, including B (22, aged 15 at the time), were also tried, although they were not initially arrested.
The prosecution sought a 14-year prison sentence for A, along with 80 hours of sexual assault treatment, mandatory disclosure of personal information and a 10-year employment restriction. The co-defendants received 3 to 7 years in prison, 40 hours of sexual assault treatment, disclosure of personal information, and work restrictions of 5 to 10 years, depending on their level of involvement.
The defendants allegedly attacked C (then 14 years old) in a public toilet on 28 August 2018, filming the attack and broadcasting it via social media. One man reportedly used dangerous objects to inflict harm, recorded the sexual assault, and threatened to distribute the footage if the victim reported the incident.
The victim initially refrained from reporting the crime for fear of retaliation, filing a police report approximately six years later in February 2024. Although police initially dismissed key charges, the prosecution requested a new investigation, which led to further investigations and additional charges relating to special rape and intimidation.
The prosecution pointed out “Even after a significant period of time, A continued to contact and verbally abuse the victim, constituting secondary harm. While he may appear to accept responsibility in custody, sincerity cannot be confirmed. Severe punishment is essential to enforcing the law.”
In his final statement, A asked for leniency, saying: “I have failed to understand the lasting scars my actions have caused the victim. I will do my best to help her heal.” His lawyer echoed this, acknowledging his initial denial of the allegations and asking that genuine remorse be considered. The co-defendants also expressed regret and apologized for their past actions.
The victim, C, addressed the court, stating: “I have endured many hardships. There were times when I wanted to give up, but I will move forward with my future based on the outcome of this trial. Please remember this when deciding on your sentence.”
The sentencing hearing for all four defendants is scheduled for December 22, 2025.
Sources: Nate News
