Man’s Celebrity Kidnap Plot Foiled by Sex Offender He Tried to Recruit

A South Korean man in his sixties has received a 30-month prison sentence after his elaborate plot to kidnap several high-profile celebrities was uncovered. The bold criminal plan unraveled not due to police surveillance or high-security barricades—but rather because the would-be kidnapper attempted to recruit an accomplice from a list of registered sex offenders. That very individual instead alerted authorities, leading to his quick arrest and prosecution.

Detailed Planning and Reconnaissance

According to the Ulsan District Court, the convicted man meticulously prepared for the abductions, aiming to target not only celebrities but also affluent families and star lecturers. He conducted extensive reconnaissance over a weeklong period, traveling from his home in Ulsan to Seoul. He gathered sensitive details such as home addresses and license plate numbers of his prospective victims, and assembled tools essential for a kidnapping—including weapons, binoculars, handcuffs, and zip ties. The depth of his planning was a central factor cited by the court in determining his intent and culpability.

After the sentencing, the court also mandated the defendant wear an electronic anklet for five years after his release. This electronic monitoring requirement is in line with South Korea’s effort to closely supervise individuals deemed at risk of reoffending in violent or sexual crimes.

Recruiting an Accomplice—and the Fatal Mistake

In a unique twist to an already chilling case, the man sought out a partner for his scheme by browsing a government-run website that, in the interest of public safety, publishes personal information about sex offenders. He selected one registered individual and pitched the plan as a "good business proposition," promising a potential payout of up to 2 billion won (roughly $1.4 million).

However, this approach backfired spectacularly. The sex offender he contacted did not respond positively to the proposition and instead tipped off the authorities. While the alleged mastermind continued with preparations, Seoul police, acting on the tip, arrested him before anyone could be harmed.

Court Rejects Defendant’s Claims

In his defense, the convicted man claimed he never genuinely intended to execute the abduction and was merely fantasizing or engaging in idle plotting. The court rejected these arguments outright, noting that the level of detailed preparation—acquiring equipment, researching neighborhoods, and tracking the targets’ personal details—demonstrated concrete intention. Additionally, the court referenced the defendant’s prior conviction for robbery as further evidence of potential threat and recidivism.

For a closer look at how such verdicts are determined, the Ulsan District Court’s application of Article 343 of the Criminal Act holds individuals liable for merely preparing to commit robbery, even if the act is not attempted or carried out (see Article 343, South Korea’s Criminal Act).

Parallels and Wider Implications

This bizarre and unsettling crime highlights several pressing issues in Korean society, including the management of public registries for sex offenders and concerns over the privacy and safety of public figures. In other high-profile cases globally, celebrity kidnapping plots have also involved illicit attempts to recruit accomplices, and similar tip-offs have foiled potentially devastating crimes. For example, in a recent UK case, a kidnapping and assault plan against TV celebrity Holly Willoughby was also stopped when an accomplice revealed details to police before any harm could occur.

South Korea’s approach to monitoring and supervising high-risk offenders, including the implementation of electronic anklets, reflects ongoing public debates about rehabilitation versus stringent public safety measures (learn more about South Korea’s electronic monitoring system).

Conclusion

Ultimately, this case serves as both a chilling reminder of the lengths to which criminals will go—and a testament to the critical importance of timely reporting and cooperation between the public and law enforcement. While kidnapped celebrity scenarios may evoke imagery from fiction, the detailed and nearly-executed plans in this case underscore real risks faced by public figures and the ongoing need for vigilance and strong legal frameworks to deter such crimes.

For the full original report, visit the Korea Herald coverage. To read more about recent cases and legal responses to crimes involving celebrities and high-profile individuals, review this recent news story on the Holly Willoughby kidnap plot.

Published by minsikyoon@heraldcorp.com