President Lee calls for stronger crime prevention after Incheon stabbing

President Lee Jae-myung has called for the strengthening of crime prevention and response systems following a violent stabbing incident at a large mart in Incheon. The attack, carried out by a man in his 50s with a history of attempted murder who was wearing an electronic monitoring device, resulted in nine injuries, including one person in cardiac arrest.

During a visit to the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency, President Lee emphasized that the government must move beyond reactive measures and focus on early detection of danger. He specifically highlighted the need for better management of individuals under probation and those wearing electronic anklets, as well as ensuring that victim protection tools, such as smartwatches, are functioning effectively in the field.

Addressing the issue of mental health, the President noted that current emergency hospitalization measures by police have limitations. He urged the Ministry of Health and Welfare, local governments, and other relevant agencies to collaborate on more effective management and response plans for individuals with mental illnesses whose violent tendencies pose a concrete risk of serious crime.