13-1-2025 (MANILA) In a significant law enforcement operation, Philippine authorities have successfully detained two South Korean nationals who were subjects of an international manhunt. The arrests, carried out by the Bureau of Immigration (BI), took place in Manila and Cebu on 7th and 8th January 2025.
The suspects, identified as Choi Wonchul and Lee Jihwan, were apprehended following the issuance of red notices by Interpol. Both individuals are wanted for serious criminal offences in South Korea.
Choi, who formerly operated as a car dealer, faces charges of embezzlement and fraud in Seoul. According to court documents, he allegedly misappropriated customer payments totalling approximately US$65,000 in 2008 whilst working in the automotive sector.
In a separate case, Lee is wanted by authorities in Changwon District for a violent robbery. Investigators allege that Lee, alongside an accomplice, orchestrated a brutal attack on a fellow South Korean national. The victim was reportedly restrained with duct tape whilst being forced to transfer 10 million won (approximately US$6,800) to Lee’s bank account.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado emphasised the Philippines’ stance on international fugitives: “These individuals will be deported and permanently barred from re-entering our borders. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards foreign nationals attempting to evade justice by seeking refuge in our nation.”
The successful arrests underscore the growing cooperation between international law enforcement agencies in the pursuit of cross-border criminals. Both suspects are now awaiting deportation to South Korea, where they will face prosecution for their alleged crimes.
