YOUNGMI SHIN | Wife found covered in blood—‘holding and on top of’ dead husband—after plunging knife into his back, leading to murder charge | Two daughters sue stepmother over father’s death | ALS

Youngmi Shin. Autographed Letter, Signed. Handwritten, Commercial #10 (4.125 × 9.5 envelope). Tacoma, WA. March 31, 2025. Content unknown. SEALED.

A Fatal Encounter in Parkland: The Story of Youngmi Shin

Youngmi Shin, born in 1972, is a resident of Parkland, Washington. As of April 2025, she is 52 years old and currently faces charges related to the death of her husband, Jay Choi. Shin has been charged with two counts of second-degree domestic-violence murder following the incident that occurred on November 27, 2024. Prior to this, she had no known criminal record.​

Details about Shin's early life, family background, and education are not extensively documented in public records. She was married to Jay Choi, 62, and they resided together in Parkland. Information regarding her employment history and known associates remains scarce.​

Incident Details

According to court documents, the events leading up to the stabbing began when Shin's husband returned home from work and requested alcohol. She complied by purchasing a bottle of Jack Daniel’s whiskey for him. After consuming alcohol together—Shin reportedly drank two light beers while her husband consumed most of the whiskey—an argument ensued. This argument escalated when Shin attempted to prevent her husband from driving under the influence by hiding their car keys.

During this confrontation, Shin claims that her husband became verbally abusive, insulting her family and demanding access to the keys. Reports indicate that he physically assaulted her by grabbing her hair and punching her in the face. Following this altercation, he exited their home, which led to further conflict.

Stabbing Incident

Shin later admitted to detectives that she stabbed her husband in the back with a knife during their altercation. Afterward, she sought help from a neighbor around 11:30 PM, stating that her husband was dying and asking them to call 911. When law enforcement arrived at their residence on Ainsworth Avenue South, they found Choi deceased with a significant stab wound on his back.

The police noted signs of a struggle inside both their home and an adjacent workshop where Choi had been working prior to his death. Items were broken and blood was present throughout these areas.

Shin was arrested on November 27, 2024, at her residence by local law enforcement officers. She was subsequently charged with two counts of second-degree domestic-violence murder. Court proceedings commenced in December 2024, with Shin pleading not guilty to the charges. As of April 2025, the trial is pending, and no verdict has been reached. Shin's defense maintains that she acted in self-defense during the incident. Additionally, in February 2025, Choi's daughters filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Shin, seeking compensatory damages for their father's death.​

The tragic death of Jay Choi has profoundly affected his family, particularly his daughters, who have expressed enduring grief and a sense of loss. The community of Parkland has been unsettled by the incident, leading to discussions about domestic violence and self-defense claims. Media coverage has been extensive, reflecting public interest and concern over the circumstances of the case. While the case has highlighted issues surrounding domestic disputes, as of now, there have been no legislative changes directly resulting from this incident.

As of April 2025, Youngmi Shin remains in custody awaiting trial. There is no public information indicating her participation in rehabilitation programs. The outcome of the trial will significantly influence any assessment of future risks or threats she may pose to society.​

The case of Youngmi Shin underscores the complexities inherent in domestic violence incidents, particularly when claims of self-defense are involved. It highlights the importance of thorough investigations and fair legal proceedings to ensure justice for all parties. This incident serves as a reminder of the need for accessible support systems for individuals in volatile domestic situations and the importance of community awareness in preventing similar tragedies.​

Given the notoriety of this case and its unique circumstances, any personal items associated with Youngmi Shin, especially autographed materials, may hold significant value to collectors due to their rarity. However, ethical considerations should be taken into account when seeking such items, respecting the sensitivities of the victims' families and the broader community.

Archiving Protocol:

• Handled with White Gloves ab initio

• Photo Pages/Sheet Protectors: Heavyweight Clear Sheet Protectors, Acid Free & Archival Safe, 8.5 × 11, Top Load

• White Backing Board – Acid Free

Shipping/Packaging: Rigid Mailer 9.5 × 12.5. White, self-seal, stay-flat, Kraft cardboard, no bend. Each rigid mailer is made of heavy cardboard, which has strong resistance to bending and tearing. Thicker than the USPS mailers. Shipping cost never more than it absolutely has to be to get it from me to you.