Air Force Lieutenant Death Incident Under Investigation for Alleged Abuse Within Military

It has recently come to light that police are investigating allegations of 'abuse within the military' related to the case of an Air Force lieutenant who took his own life in May of last year.

According to the Southern Gyeonggi Police Agency, on May 27 of last year, Lieutenant A from an Air Force unit in Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi Province, ended his life in his quarters.

Following reports from colleagues of Lieutenant A, the Air Force investigative team commenced an investigation, concluding by July 2 of the same year that there had been abusive behavior within the unit, and subsequently referred the case to the Southern Gyeonggi Police Agency.

Current military law stipulates that if criminal suspicion arises in cases of death within the military, the investigation must be transferred to civilian police, indicating that the investigative authority has been handed over.

Evidence of Abuse of Authority and Report Denials

So far, police have identified that Major B, also from the same unit, rejected Lieutenant A's reports several times for minor reasons over a period of about a month from mid-February to mid-March last year.

The investigative authorities are reportedly closely examining the possibility that these actions may have influenced Lieutenant A's extreme decision.

Impact of Major B's Actions on Lieutenant A's Decision

In late February, police transferred Major B on charges of abuse of authority. However, following a request for supplementary investigation by the prosecution last month, police are re-evaluating the case and conducting additional inquiries.

A police official stated, "Since this matter is currently under investigation, we cannot provide detailed information."

This case raises concerns about the need for fundamental improvements in military organizational culture, as there have been ongoing instances of death related to abuse within the military, including the 2021 death of Air Force Sergeant Lee, who was a victim of sexual assault.

The Ministry of National Defense has recently intensified measures to protect human rights within the military and eradicate abuse, but doubts have been raised regarding whether substantial changes are occurring.

Experts point out that the vertical hierarchy and closed culture within the military may be fundamental causes of such incidents, advising that a comprehensive reform of military organizational culture and strengthening of victim protection systems are necessary.

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