Jeong Jae-hwan requests psychiatric evaluation in Gyeongsan murder trial

The first trial for Jeong Jae-hwan, a 24-year-old accused of murdering a friend with a knife in Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk Province, was held at the Daegu District Court. Jeong is charged with killing his friend by stabbing him approximately 40 times during a drinking session for unknown reasons. He also faces charges of assault against another friend, assault against the victim prior to the killing, and theft of banana milk from a convenience store following the incident.

During the hearing, Jeong's defense counsel requested a psychiatric evaluation, arguing that the defendant's behavior following the crime—which included wandering the streets in a state of intoxication—and the lack of a clear motive suggest abnormal mental states. The court stated it would decide whether to conduct additional psychiatric evaluations after reviewing existing results from investigative agencies.

The victim's family and acquaintances have submitted approximately 4,000 petitions requesting severe punishment for the defendant. The court requested that the parties refrain from submitting further petitions to ensure the smooth progress of the trial. The next hearing is scheduled for November 11.