Two incidents that unfolded in otherwise ordinary settings raise the same question: why do preventable tragedies recur? In its May 1 broadcast, SBS's investigative program 'Curious Story Y' examines the structural failures and human shortcomings behind the death of a 3-year-old in Yangju and a knife attack by a taxi driver in Ulsan.
The first segment focuses on the death of a 3-year-old in Yangju, Gyeonggi Province, and asks: why did no one stop this? Sumin (a pseudonym), described at preschool and by neighbors as a bright, gentle child, was rushed to the hospital in critical condition on April 9. Medical staff found extensive brain hemorrhaging and bruises across her body. She underwent emergency surgery and further treatment, but she died five days later.
The child's father, identified as Mr. Park (pseudonym), faces allegations of abuse; he denies them. Reporters found neighbors who said he treated her differently from his other children. Several witnesses described him losing his temper over minor matters, which has deepened suspicion.
Warning signs had already appeared. In December last year, medical staff who saw Sumin noted facial bruising and withdrawn behavior and filed a report suspecting child abuse. Police and local authorities reportedly investigated, but their response ultimately failed to prevent her death. 'Curious Story Y' examines what actions followed that report and why the child protection system did not function effectively.
The program then turns to a knife attack by a taxi driver in Ulsan. A driver known locally for his flashy, uniquely decorated taxi alarmed the community when he suddenly brandished a weapon. Mr. Park (pseudonym), who decorated his vehicle with bright lights and music and had appeared on broadcasts and online content, is accused of attacking a fellow driver with a knife in the early hours of April 27.
Witnesses at the scene say he repeatedly struck the victim with a pre-prepared weapon and threatened bystanders. People who knew him said his behavior was a shocking departure from his usual, upbeat public persona.
As reporters investigated, they uncovered a related allegation: that Park behaved inappropriately toward underage passengers. Some witnesses say he paid excessive attention to female, especially younger, riders. Authorities are now probing whether the attack was an attempt to cover up those actions.
Although the incidents occurred in different places, both reveal a gap between public image and reality. In each case, warning signs went unaddressed and the outcome was tragic—raising difficult questions about our social safety nets and response systems. 'Curious Story Y' retraces the events and reopens questions we may have overlooked. SBS's 'Curious Story Y' airs on May 1 at 8:50 p.m.
※ This article was written without compensation.
