"Former NCO Denies Knowing About Wife's Condition in Second Trial Over 'Maggot-Ridden Wife Neglect' Case"

“Thirty-Year Prison Sentence in First Trial ‘Excessively Severe’,”
Prosecution Argues, “Punishment Too Lenient Considering the Suffering of the Victim”

A former Army non-commissioned officer accused of causing his wife's death by neglecting her for an extended period—until maggots had spread across her body—continued to deny the charges during his appeal trial.

'Unanswered Truth' Broadcast on the 13th. "Love, Maggots, and Excuses – The Truth Behind the Death of the NCO's Wife in Paju" Episode. SBS 'Unanswered Truth'

On July 21, the 5th Criminal Division of the Seoul High Court (Chief Judge Kim Youngseok) announced that the defendant, Mr. Kim, a former non-commissioned officer in his 30s, had submitted a letter of appeal claiming his innocence in the murder case under review in the appellate court.

In response to the first trial’s verdict, which sentenced Kim to 30 years in prison, Kim’s defense argued that they were appealing the ruling on grounds of factual misrepresentation, legal misinterpretation, and excessive sentencing, stating, “The victim asked to delay treatment, and since she remained under the covers, it was difficult to fully recognize her condition.”

They further argued, “Kim had continuously cared for the victim and did not actively intend harm. He does reflect on the outcome, so the sentence is excessively severe.”

On the other hand, prosecutors stated their reasons for appeal, arguing that the original sentence was too lenient, given that: the victim endured severe pain; the neglect persisted for an extended period, making it highly blameworthy; and Kim has shown no remorse.

Previously, Kim was brought to trial on charges of leaving his wife, Ms. A, who had long suffered from depression and social withdrawal, without adequate medical care or protection, ultimately causing her death. Prosecutors contended that although Ms. A’s condition rapidly deteriorated from late August last year—resulting in bedsores and tissue necrosis—Kim failed to provide necessary medical intervention and did not call emergency services until November 17 last year, just before cardiac arrest. Ms. A died of sepsis the day after she was transferred to the hospital.

It was found that Kim prevented family members from visiting, telling them that Ms. A was “improving.” The Army's investigative division initially referred Kim to military prosecutors for charges of bodily injury resulting in death in December last year; however, military prosecutors later indicted Kim on murder charges, determining that he had knowingly and deliberately left his wife to die.

During the trial, Kim denied the charges, claiming he was unaware of his wife’s condition. Nevertheless, the first trial court sentenced him to 30 years in prison. The court noted at the time, “The victim was left in an extremely contaminated environment for a prolonged period, dying in misery due to the defendant’s inattention and apathy. The victim’s death could easily have been prevented with even minimal effort.” The court further stated, “The defendant’s repeated, unconvincing excuses show he has failed to reflect on his wrongdoing.”

Meanwhile, prosecutors announced their intention to call Yoonseong Oh, professor at Soonchunhyang University’s Department of Police Administration, as well as Ms. A’s mother, as witnesses. The court plans to conclude witness examination and close arguments, aiming to complete proceedings on August 25 if possible.

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