Police investigate possible premeditation after two men die and another survives in northern Seoul incidents
A 21-year-old woman identified only by her surname, Kim, has been taken into custody over allegations that she drugged three men with medication-laced drinks, resulting in two deaths and one serious injury at motels in northern Seoul. The Seoul Gangbuk Police Station said she is under investigation for causing fatal injury and breaching the Narcotics Control Act. A court has granted a detention warrant, citing the risk that she could flee.
Investigators allege that between mid-December and early February, Kim administered beverages containing benzodiazepine and other substances to three men in their 20s. Two later died, while one survived after losing consciousness. Authorities said the medication had been prescribed by a hospital psychiatry department. Forensic analysis detected multiple drugs in at least one victim’s body.
Police believe the first case occurred on Dec. 14 in Namyangju, Gyeonggi Province. Kim allegedly gave her then-boyfriend a fatigue-recovery drink laced with sleeping pills, telling him he must be tired from driving. He lost consciousness shortly after consumption but recovered two days later. He later filed a complaint when she failed to explain what had been in the drink.
The second incident took place on Jan. 28 at a motel in Suyu-dong, Gangbuk-gu. Kim is accused of entering the room with a man she had met days earlier and giving him a hangover drink containing medication. He was found dead the following day.
A third case occurred on Feb. 9 at another motel in the same district. Police said Kim entered the room with a man in his mid-20s and left alone about two hours later. The man was discovered dead on the bed the next day. No external injuries were reported, and alcohol containers were found at the scene.
Drugs and Forensic Findings
Benzodiazepine, commonly used to treat insomnia and anxiety disorders, can cause paralysis or breathing difficulties, especially when taken in large amounts or combined with alcohol. Police said alcohol had been consumed in at least two of the fatal cases.
Following her arrest, investigators searched Kim’s residence and seized various drugs and empty beverage bottles. The substances have been sent to the National Forensic Service for analysis. CCTV footage helped authorities track her movements before the arrest.
Investigation into Intent
Police are examining whether the crimes were planned. Investigators suspect she prepared the drinks in advance and may have increased the dosage after the first incident. Her mobile phone is undergoing forensic review to determine whether she searched for lethal dosages or related information. Authorities are also considering a psychopathy assessment.
During questioning, Kim reportedly admitted to giving the victims drinks containing prescribed medication but denied intending to kill them. She stated that she did not expect the men to die and claimed she learned of their deaths only after being contacted by police. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing and that no additional victims have been identified so far.
