Story perspectives

South Korean Court Acquits Woman in Historic Self-Defense Ruling

9/12/2025

Summary

Story summary

A South Korean court acquitted Choi Mal-ja, convicted 60 years ago for biting off part of a man's tongue during an alleged sexual assault.
The court deemed her actions “justifiable self-defence” against a man who attacked her in 1964.
Choi's conviction for grievous bodily harm was overturned by the Busan district court.
Women’s rights activists celebrated the ruling, linking it to the #MeToo movement.
Choi intends to seek state compensation for her wrongful conviction.

History

Historical Context

The 1964 case of Choi Mal-ja in South Korea underscored societal views on women's rights and self-defense. Recently, the Busan district court overturned her conviction for grievous bodily harm, signaling a shift in legal attitudes toward gender-based violence. This ruling aligns with the #MeToo movement, potentially shaping future legal standards and societal norms regarding women's rights and self-defense claims.

1 of 2

Story summary

A South Korean court acquitted Choi Mal-ja, convicted 60 years ago for biting off part of a man's tongue during an alleged sexual assault.
The court deemed her actions “justifiable self-defence” against a man who attacked her in 1964.
Choi's conviction for grievous bodily harm was overturned by the Busan district court.
Women’s rights activists celebrated the ruling, linking it to the #MeToo movement.
Choi intends to seek state compensation for her wrongful conviction.

1 / 2