Story perspectives

79-Year-Old Woman Acquitted in Landmark Self-Defense Ruling

9/10/2025

Summary

Story summary

Choi Mal-ja, convicted in 1965 for biting off part of a man's tongue during an attempted rape, was acquitted by a South Korean court.
The Busan District Court deemed her actions "justifiable self-defense" under current law.
Choi, now 79, was attacked at 19, while her assailant received a lighter sentence.
The ruling reflects the influence of the #MeToo movement and support from women's rights groups.
Choi's lawyers will seek state compensation for her past conviction.

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Story summary

Choi Mal-ja, convicted in 1965 for biting off part of a man's tongue during an attempted rape, was acquitted by a South Korean court.
The Busan District Court deemed her actions "justifiable self-defense" under current law.
Choi, now 79, was attacked at 19, while her assailant received a lighter sentence.
The ruling reflects the influence of the #MeToo movement and support from women's rights groups.
Choi's lawyers will seek state compensation for her past conviction.