Presumed body of missing woman found on Jeju Island

JEJU, South Korea - The presumed remains of a missing woman were discovered on Jeju Island on Monday, according to police, amid a prolonged search effort that was only initiated belatedly due to a police officer's premature closure of the initial case. The body was found in a forest near 37-year-old Jang Mi-ran's residence, where she went missing three months ago.

Police are currently attempting to confirm the identity of the remains and plan to perform an autopsy to determine the cause of death. However, there are no immediate indications of foul play. Jang was last seen leaving her home on May 12, and her disappearance prompted a missing person's report three days later. The case gained attention after it was revealed that a police officer prematurely closed the case in May, allegedly without verifying her safety or consulting her friends and family.

This officer was subsequently arrested on suspicion of dereliction of duty, falsifying official records, and obstructing official duties through deceit.