Kim So-young Denies Charges in Motel Murder Trial

By Eun-mi. Won Posted : May 7, 2026, 23:51 Updated : May 7, 2026, 23:51
The Seoul Northern District Prosecutor's Office released a mugshot of Kim So-young, accused of killing two men with drug-laced drinks on March 9. [Photo=Seoul Northern District Prosecutor's Office]

Kim So-young, 20, has reiterated her denial of charges in a trial related to a series of motel murders.
On May 7, video footage was shown in court for the first time, depicting Kim leading a man who appeared to be under the influence of drugs.
The Seoul Northern District Court held the second hearing for Kim, who is facing murder charges. She appeared in court wearing a prison uniform.
While witness testimonies were conducted behind closed doors, Nam Eon-ho, the lawyer representing the victims, shared details on social media after the proceedings.
Nam stated that when the court asked Kim if she had any questions for the victim, she expressed a desire to ask, "Did the victim ever make unwanted physical contact with you in the past?"
Nam argued that this suggested Kim wanted to claim she offered the drugged drink as a means of self-defense against unwanted advances from the victim.
Victim A testified that after taking a sip of a vitamin drink offered by Kim, he found it bitter and refused to drink more, but Kim insisted he finish it.
After the witness testimonies, the court reviewed CCTV footage showing Kim and the disoriented man entering an elevator at a café in Namyangju.
The footage showed the man struggling to stand and being guided by Kim, who appeared to be conversing with him while showing him her phone.
This behavior elicited murmurs of discontent from the courtroom audience. The prosecution had additional footage prepared but could not present it due to technical issues.
Kim is accused of administering drinks laced with benzodiazepine to three men between mid-December and February, resulting in the deaths of two and one losing consciousness. She was indicted in March.
On April 30, she faced additional charges for injuring three other men using similar methods.
The court plans to decide whether to consolidate the two cases at the next hearing, scheduled for June 11 at 4:30 PM.



* This article has been translated by AI.

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