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Prosecutors requested the death penalty on the 12th for Kim Dong-won, 42, a franchise owner charged with murdering three individuals, including executives from a pizza franchise headquarters.

During the sentencing hearing conducted at Seoul Central District Court’s Criminal Division 34 (Judge Han Seong-jin) on the same day, prosecutors said, “Two close-knit families were shattered, and the victims lost their lives, resulting in irreversible harm,” outlining the basis for their request. Prosecutors also called for a 30-year electronic monitoring device and five years of protective supervision.

Concerning the interior issues at the store that Kim Dong-won cited as his reason, prosecutors stated, “The seriousness of the defects is hard to detect.” They pointed out that only two tiles were broken and there was slight water seepage, which Kim could have fixed on his own.

Kim’s lawyer stated, “The defendant’s behavior is unacceptable,” but also mentioned, “He experienced intense pressure and even thought about ending his life.” He further noted, “There hasn’t been a chance for a settlement so far,” and asked for mercy, saying, “Please take into account that he is ready to put all his possessions into an account.”

During his closing remarks, Kim became emotional and stated, “I deeply apologize to the victims and their families for the suffering and harm I caused. Although it’s embarrassing, I hope their hearts find some healing every day.”

Kim is charged with killing three individuals, among them a company employee and a father-daughter team of interior contractors, using a weapon from the kitchen of his pizza restaurant in Jo-won-dong, Gwanak-gu, Seoul, on September 3 of the previous year.

The court stated that the decision will be made on the 5th day of the following month.