A coroner has ruled a university researcher was unlawfully killed at an inquest which concluded today (May 20).

Dr Minguk Seo's body was discovered in a property on Countess Way, Broughton, on January 25, 2022 sparking a major crime unit investigation by Thames Valley Police.

Dr Seo's wife, Byoung Ju Jeon, was arrested on suspicion of murder alongside other offences.

However, Jeon took her own life on May 3 while under investigation. 

Police said had Byoung Ju Jeon still been alive, a file would have been prepared for the Crown Prosecution Service and "we would have sought to charge and remand her for a number of offences, including murder and coercive and controlling behaviour."

Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector Nicola Underhill said: "At the conclusion of this inquest, my thoughts and the thoughts of all of us at Thames Valley Police are with the family, friends and colleagues of Dr Seo.

"They have had to endure a long investigation and I would like to pay tribute to them for their patience, dignity and understanding.

"Our investigation found strong evidence that Dr Seo was a victim of serious domestic abuse, and was a victim of years of coercive and controlling behaviour, as well as physical and mental abuse."

According to Underhill, instances such as this one underscore that men can also be victims of domestic abuse.

She encourages anyone who feels they are suffering not to stay silent and to report to the police.

"We will always investigate domestic abuse in all its forms as a top priority, and at the conclusion of this tragic case, I would like to add that we will treat victims with respect, dignity and support them through an investigation."

Not tolerating domestic abuse, Thames Valley Police offer advice and information is available on their website.

This includes how to report such offences.

Victims can seek support via Victims First, offering free emotional and practical support to anyone who has experienced domestic abuse.