Auckland – A New Zealand mother has been convicted of murdering her two young children and hiding their bodies in suitcases, in a case that shocked the world and became known as the “suitcase murders.”
Hakyung Lee, 45, originally from South Korea and a New Zealand citizen, was found guilty by a jury at the Auckland High Court after just two hours of deliberation. The remains of her children – Yuna Jo (8) and Minu Jo (6) – were discovered in 2022 inside abandoned suitcases at a storage facility in south Auckland. Authorities later confirmed the children had been dead for three to four years before being found.
Lee was extradited from Seoul in 2022 following an international investigation.
Trial and Defense Arguments
Lee had already admitted to killing her children, but her defense hinged on whether she was legally insane at the time. Her lawyers argued she suffered severe depression after her husband’s death in 2017, and claimed she believed ending her children’s lives was a morally “right” act.
A forensic psychiatrist testified that Lee experienced depression, guilt, suicidal thoughts, and distorted beliefs. The defense sought a verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity.
However, prosecutors pointed out her deliberate actions after the killings – including hiding the bodies and fleeing the country – as clear evidence that she knew her actions were wrong. Prosecutor Natalie Walker told the jury:
“Ms Lee deliberately, and in sound mind, murdered Minu and Yuna. The right verdict is guilty of murder.”
Verdict and Sentencing
Justice Geoffrey Venning, in his instructions, reminded the jury to decide based on evidence, acknowledging it was natural to feel sympathy both for the children and for the defendant.
The jury returned a guilty verdict after just two hours. Lee now faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with a minimum non-parole period of 10 years under New Zealand law. Before entering prison, she may be detained in a mental health facility under a compulsory treatment order.
Sentencing has been scheduled for November.
Courtroom Scenes
Throughout the three-week trial, Lee sat between a translator and a security guard, keeping her head bowed and her face hidden by her hair. Although technically representing herself, she did not speak or ask questions during the proceedings.
The guilty verdict brings closure to one of New Zealand’s most disturbing criminal cases in recent memory, while leaving lasting questions about mental health, accountability, and justice.
FAQs
Who is Hakyung Lee?
A 45-year-old New Zealand citizen originally from South Korea, convicted of murdering her two children.
Who were the victims?
Her children, Yuna Jo (8) and Minu Jo (6), whose bodies were found in suitcases in 2022.
What was the defense argument?
Her lawyers claimed she suffered severe depression and was legally insane at the time of the killings.
What sentence does she face?
Lee faces life imprisonment with a minimum non-parole period of 10 years. Sentencing will take place in November.
