South Korea has been shaken by the death of rising TikTok influencer Yoon Ji-ah, who was found dead in Muju County, North Jeolla Province, on September 11.
The 27-year-old, with more than 300,000 followers, was discovered with bruises and strangulation marks. A post-mortem confirmed the cause of death as asphyxia due to neck compression, according to reports from The JoongAng, The Chosun Daily and Chosun Biz.
Authorities believe Yoon was attacked roughly 30 minutes after finishing a livestream. Hours earlier, she had been broadcasting from Yeongjong Island in Incheon, about three hours away from where her body was later found.
The main suspect, identified as Choi, a man in his 50s, was later revealed to have led a double life. He allegedly posed as a successful IT company CEO and was known online by the alias “Black Cat.”
Reports say he was one of Yoon’s top financial supporters, having spent around 100 million won ($73,000) on gifts and donations. Despite his outward appearance of wealth, Choi was reportedly heavily indebted and had lost his home in a forced auction.
According to Yoon’s family, she had recently expressed fears over Choi’s controlling and coercive behaviour. CCTV footage from September 11 reportedly shows her being stopped from leaving a vehicle at around 3:27 a.m. Before her death, Choi was seen pleading with her to maintain their relationship.
Choi was arrested on September 13. Initially denying any involvement, he later confessed after learning Yoon’s body had been discovered. His inconsistent statements have intensified public outrage and renewed discussion about the dangers faced by social media creators.
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