A South Korean couple is facing trial for the tragic death of their 2-year-old child, who was allegedly subjected to severe abuse, including being force-fed ultra-spicy “buldak” sauce and soju, a strong Korean liquor.
During the first hearing at the Daejeon District Court on Thursday, prosecutors accused the parents, both in their 30s, of child abuse resulting in death, repeated mistreatment, and negligence. According to a The Korean Herald report, the father has been taken into custody, while the mother remains free but under investigation.
The child, born prematurely, required a feeding tube due to health complications but was reportedly denied this critical support. Instead, prosecutors said the parents force-fed her baby food despite her condition. The child also endured frequent beatings, which left her with multiple bruises and a skull fracture.
A day before the child was found lifeless, the parents allegedly fed her “buldak” sauce and later forced her to drink soju after she showed signs of being unwell. The following day, they called emergency services, claiming their child was not breathing. Medical responders found the child weighing only 6.9 kilograms, suggesting extreme malnutrition.
“The parents delayed reporting the death, fearing their actions would be exposed,” prosecutors stated. “They only sought help when they realized they could not manage the situation.”
The couple has three other children, who have since been placed under the care of their grandparents. Authorities have found no signs of abuse in the surviving children. The trial is ongoing.
