“여기도 사람 사는 곳”…‘제주 괴담’ 확산에 잇따른 자제 목소리

A recent string of unsubstantiated claims about safety in Jeju Island has been spreading online, fueled by a recent missing persons case. The unsubstantiated claims include allegations that a foreign national committed a crime in Jeju, as well as suggestions that the real culprit could be a Chinese person. Numerous statements on social media express fear of being attacked or disappearing in Jeju, whether during the day or at night.

One of the many YouTube channels that promote Jeju Island culture is 'Muaranghan', which has posted videos such as "One can't find a corpse regardless of whether they're just out to have fun." A medical journalist named Hong Hye-gil warned readers not to wander around the island alone, as "there are places in Jeju where even shouting for help won't be heard." She also encouraged caution in general, stating that she was sorry for her previous remarks.

After posting a statement on Facebook, Hong said, "Jeju is truly beautiful, but it's not safe to be careless. Even in broad daylight, in well-lit areas, it's not safe to wander around alone." She added, "As a 7-year resident of Jeju, I'm issuing a warning." However, a local resident named Kim G criticized the post, saying, "Why do you make Jeju seem like a dangerous place?" Kim added, "I don't think Dr. Hong's article would hurt those who live here, but it could cause pain to others."

In response, Hong posted another statement on Facebook, clarifying that her intention was to caution readers, not to accuse Jeju of being unsafe. She apologized to those who felt hurt by her words. The online community also expressed concern over the rising number of unreported missing persons in Jeju, with some claiming that one thousand people go missing annually in the island.

According to the 2024 statistics released by the police, the number of unreported missing persons in Jeju is 814, which is the second-lowest in the country after Sejong Special Self-Governing City. By contrast, Seoul, with a population of almost ten million, has over 22,429 reported missing persons.