Case Explained:This article breaks down the legal background, charges, and implications of Case Explained: S. Korea opens debate on lowering juvenile crime age – Legal Perspective
1 of 2 | South Korean Gender Equality and Family Minister Won Min-kyung (R) speaks with Noh Jeong-hee (L), co-chair of the social dialogue council, at a forum on juvenile justice at the Korea Press Center in Seoul on Wednesday. Photo by Asia Today
March 18 (Asia Today) — South Korea’s Ministry of Gender Equality and Family held its first public forum Wednesday on whether to lower the age of criminal responsibility from 14 to 13, as debate grows over how to address juvenile crime.
The forum, held at the Korea Press Center in Seoul, marks the start of a broader public consultation process led by a government-civilian council examining the issue.
Minister Won Min-kyung said discussions on the age threshold should be based on public consensus reached through careful deliberation and debate.
“We need a balanced approach grounded in social agreement,” Won said, adding that the forum aims to provide accurate information and gather diverse opinions.
Participants included legal scholars, policymakers and youth experts. Noh Jeong-hee, a former Supreme Court justice and co-chair of the council, said the discussion should move beyond stereotypes and focus on evidence-based analysis.
She said the debate should not be limited to lowering the age of criminal punishment but also address broader societal responsibility for youth-related issues.
Presenters noted a recent increase in offenses involving juveniles under 14, particularly theft and violence, along with a rise in serious crimes such as sexual assault. However, experts cautioned that lowering the age by one year may not necessarily provide an effective solution.
Under South Korean law, children under 14 are not subject to criminal punishment. Those aged 10 to 13 can instead be placed under protective measures through the juvenile justice system.
Data from 2023 show that only a small share of juvenile cases led to formal trials, with many instead handled through protective or rehabilitative measures.
Officials emphasized that rehabilitation and social reintegration should remain a priority over punitive approaches.
The ministry said it will continue discussions through expert reviews and a 100-member citizen panel, with a second public forum planned for next month.
— Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI
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