Key facts
- South Korea is considering lowering the minimum age of criminal responsibility from 14 to 13.
- The proposed change applies to violent, serious, or repetitive crimes.
- Public opinion polls show a majority support for lowering the age by one year.
- Children under the current age limit are referred to community service or youth correction institutions.
- A new government-wide system to prevent juvenile delinquency is also proposed.
The South Korean government is contemplating a reduction in the minimum age for criminal responsibility, a move aimed at addressing an increase in crimes committed by young teenagers. The Ministry of Gender Equality and Family announced that it is considering lowering the age from the current 14 to 13, particularly for severe offenses. This proposal stems from President Lee Jae Myung's directive in February to solicit public opinion on the matter.
Public sentiment, as indicated by various polls, shows a notable inclination towards lowering the age. A survey of adults revealed 78% support for the change, while 67% of youths agreed. Further deliberation among citizens indicated that 46.7% favored a conditional lowering of the age threshold, with the largest segment of respondents, 55.8%, advocating for a one-year reduction. Conversely, support for maintaining the current age limit saw an increase to 17% after deliberations.
Under the existing legal framework, children under 14 who commit offenses are typically directed to community service or youth correction facilities, with a maximum detention period of two years. For juveniles aged 14 to 18, the maximum statutory sentence can be up to 15 years in prison. In addition to the age revision, the ministry also plans to implement a comprehensive government-wide system designed to prevent juvenile delinquency.