South Korean couple faces trial for fatal neglect of 6-month-old infant

A 20-year-old couple is facing trial in South Korea for the alleged murder of their 6-month-old son through repeated neglect. During a hearing at the Daejeon District Court, prosecutors revealed harrowing details, including the discovery of maggots on the infant's genitals and the child's severely stunted growth. The baby weighed only 3.68kg at the time of death, significantly below the average weight for his age.

Evidence presented in court shows the couple neglected the child approximately 140 times between December 2023 and July 2024, often leaving him alone to visit internet cafes or travel. Search histories revealed the mother searched for terms such as ‘newborn death insurance’ and ‘I want to kill my child,’ while the father reportedly used AI to ask about the legal penalties for a child's death.

The defendants have denied intent to kill, claiming they did not realize the child would die. However, prosecutors argue the couple demonstrated willful negligence, noting they failed to seek medical help even when the infant showed signs of distress, such as bloody stools and loss of focus in his eyes.