The biological mother of two children whose remains were discovered in abandoned suitcases in New Zealand has entered a guilty plea to their murder in a South Korean court. Hakyung Lee, 42, admitted to the charges, bringing a significant development in a case that has horrified international audiences.
The grim discovery was made in August 2022, when an unsuspecting family from South Auckland won a storage unit auction. To their horror, they found the remains of two primary school-aged children inside two suitcases that had been in storage for several years.
Authorities have revealed that the victims are believed to be a boy and girl, aged between 5 and 10 years old at the time of their deaths, which are estimated to have occurred around 2017 or 2018.
International Investigation Unfolds
The investigation quickly became an international effort, with New Zealand police working closely with South Korean authorities. The children were born in South Korea but had been living in New Zealand for some time before their tragic deaths.
Detective Inspector Tofilau Faamanuia Vaaelua of New Zealand Police stated: "This is a complex and sensitive investigation, and we are working closely with our international partners to ensure justice is served for these two young victims."
Legal Proceedings and Extradition
Lee was arrested in Ulsan, South Korea, in September 2022 following the issuance of an arrest warrant. The New Zealand government has now begun formal extradition proceedings to bring her to New Zealand to face justice.
Under South Korean law, citizens cannot be extradited for crimes committed abroad unless there's a specific treaty. However, Lee could face trial in South Korea for murders committed overseas under certain circumstances.
The case continues to develop as authorities work to piece together the full timeline of events that led to this tragic outcome.
