Four High School Students Charged with Prolonged Bullying in Chungnam

Four high school students from Chungnam's Cheongyang have been charged by police for engaging in severe bullying over a four-year period. Reports indicate that the school failed to take immediate protective measures, raising concerns as one of the perpetrators' parents is a current police officer.

The Chungnam Provincial Police Agency announced on June 10 that they are investigating the students, including a 17-year-old identified as A, for charges related to special assault, extortion, and violations of the Sexual Violence Punishment Act (using cameras for illicit filming).

The accused have been accused of repeatedly assaulting their classmate, B, who they had known since middle school. From June 2023 to April 2024, they allegedly extorted approximately 2.3 million won (around $2,000) from B over 32 incidents, bound his arms with duct tape, and took photos of him in compromising positions. They also reportedly forced B to drink alcohol, smoke, and shaved his head.

The victim's family reported the bullying to the school in mid-May, demanding immediate action. However, the school reportedly refused to separate the students, citing an upcoming school trip. The victim's family expressed frustration over the school's and education authorities' inadequate response, stating that the victim is suffering from severe psychological distress.

Additionally, TJB reported that one of the perpetrators' parents is a serving police officer, leading to allegations of a cover-up. The education authorities are currently reviewing the school's response and considering disciplinary actions. Chungnam Education Superintendent Kim Ji-cheol expressed deep sympathy for the victim and their family, emphasizing the need for swift investigations and measures to ensure the safety of students. He stated that such incidents should never occur in schools where children should feel safe to learn and grow.