A South Korean court has sentenced a teacher to life in prison for fatally stabbing an eight-year-old girl, in a case that shocked the nation.
Myeong Jae-wan, 48, killed Kim Hae-neul, after luring her into a classroom in the central city of Daejeon in February.
Prosecutors had sought the death penalty for Myeong, saying that the victim's family had asked for a harsh punishment.
But the court said that while the risk of reoffending is high, it is difficult to conclude that Myeong must be executed.
Myeong stated that she would reflect on her mistakes for the rest of her life, claiming her judgement was compromised as she was receiving mental health treatment at the time of the incident.
While prosecutors argued that Myeong showed no remorse during the investigation, she later submitted letters to the court expressing regret.
Prior to the incident, Myeong had requested a six-month leave of absence for depression, returning to work after just 20 days when deemed fit by a medical professional. Reports show she had exhibited violent behavior shortly before the murder, including an altercation with another teacher.
On the day of the attack, Myeong confessed to police that she intended to kill herself along with a random child, prompting her to purchase a weapon and bring it to school. She lured Kim into the media room and attacked her, after which both were found in the school with wounds.
The case has led to vigorous discussions on ensuring safety in educational environments, with South Korean leaders stressing the need for preventive measures to avoid such tragedies in the future. Additionally, Myeong has been ordered to wear an electronic tracking device for 30 years.
According to the court's ruling, As an elementary school teacher, the accused was in a position to protect the victim. But she committed this brutal crime in which a child was not protected where they should be most safe.
