In Daejeon, South Korea, police are investigating an elementary school teacher accused of fatally stabbing a student during after-school care. This shocking incident, which occurred on Monday, has led to calls for a review of school safety protocols from the acting president. The female teacher, reportedly in her 40s, is currently receiving treatment for self-inflicted injuries. She had recently returned to work after a health-related leave and has a history of depression, having sought treatment since 2018.
The victim, a first-grade girl, was reported missing around 5:15 PM local time, prompting a search by police and family members. Tragically, she was discovered by her grandmother in an audio-visual room at approximately 5:50 PM. Despite immediate medical attention, she was pronounced dead soon after arriving at the hospital.
Choi Sang-mok, South Korea’s acting leader, has demanded a comprehensive investigation and urged education officials to implement preventative measures to avert future incidents. In the wake of the tragedy, mourners have gathered at the school, which was closed the following day, leaving flowers and condolence messages in memory of the young girl.