'Shillim-dong Weapon Rampage' Chosun, Searched Murder Methods and Vital Points Before Crime

Recently, Jo Seon (33, male), who carried out a stabbing rampage in Sillim-dong, Gwanak-gu, Seoul, testified that he searched for methods of killing, vital points, and weapons used to kill people before the crime. The police are investigating with a focus on premeditated crime, considering the circumstances that Jo Seon reset or destroyed his mobile phone and desktop PC before committing the crime.

Suspect Chosun (33) in the Shinlim-dong weapon rampage case / Provided by Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency

On the 26th, the Gwanak Police Station in Seoul announced that they secured such a statement from Jo Seon, who is suspected of murder, attempted murder, and theft. Based on Jo Seon's statement that "I have had the desire to kill for a long time," the police are investigating evidence of premeditation, as well as the trigger and motive for the incident.

During the police investigation, Jo Seon stated things like "I have an inferiority complex because I am shorter than others" and "I have long felt inferior to peers who are physically and economically better off than me," but he reportedly did not specify a concrete motive for the crime. He also testified to having depressive symptoms, but a review of medical records showed no treatment for mental illness since January 2013.

Jo Seon lived without a particular job, moving between the house of an aunt in Incheon and his grandmother's house in Doksan-dong, Geumcheon-gu, Seoul. Although his parents are alive, it is known that he has little contact with them.

Evidence of premeditation also emerged. Jo Seon reset his mobile phone the afternoon before the crime. Forensic analysis found no direct evidence related to murder in the phone’s search history, calls, messages, or photos. Additionally, it was investigated that he smashed his desktop PC with a hammer. The police are conducting forensic analysis on the desktop PC.

Meanwhile, the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency decided to disclose Jo Seon's identity through a personal information disclosure committee on the same day. The committee stated, "He attempted to kill or actually killed multiple victims using a weapon in a public place frequented by many people," and added, "The brutality of the crime and the seriousness of the damage are recognized."