MK Dr was 'unlawfully killed' hears inquest

A coroner's concluded that Doctor Minguk Seo, found dead in Broughton was unlawfully killed, with evidence pointing to domestic abuse by his wife

Milton Keynes Coroner's Court and Register Office in central Milton Keynes UK
Author: Cameron GreenPublished 20th May 2024

Following an inquest today (20/5) at Milton Keynes into the death of Dr Minguk Seo in Milton Keynes on 25 January 2022, Assistant Coroner Dr Cummings has concluded that he was unlawfully killed.

Dr Seo was found deceased at an address in Countess Way, Broughton and an investigation was launched by Thames Valley Police’s Major Crime Unit.

Dr Seo’s wife, Byoung Ju Jeon was arrested on suspicion of murder and was under investigation for this offence and others when she took her own life on 3 May 2022.

An inquest into her death on 14 September 2022 ruled this to be suicide.

Had Byoung Ju Jeon still been alive, a file would have been prepared for the Crown Prosecution Service and we would have sought to charge and remand her for a number of offences, including murder and coercive and controlling behaviour.

Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector Nicola Underhill said: “At the conclusion of this inquest, my thoughts and the thoughts of all of us at Thames Valley Police are with the family, friends and colleagues of Dr Seo.

“They have had to endure a long investigation and I would like to pay tribute to them for their patience, dignity and understanding.

“Our investigation found strong evidence that Dr Seo was a victim of serious domestic abuse, and was a victim of years of coercive and controlling behaviour, as well as physical and mental abuse.

“This case highlights that men can be victims of domestic abuse, and I would encourage anybody who feels that they are suffering, to not stay silent, but to report this to the police.

“We will always investigate domestic abuse in all its forms as a top priority, and at the conclusion of this tragic case, I would like to add that we will treat victims with respect, dignity and support them through an investigation.

“We will never tolerate domestic abuse and there is advice and information for victims available on our website, including how to report such offences.

“You can also seek support via Victims First, who provide free emotional and practical support to anyone who has experienced domestic abuse.”

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