Proposal for Minor Offense Punishment Act Including Fines and Detention for Street Obscene Harassment

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Cheol-eung] Last year, a man approached multiple unspecified women around Seoul National University Station in Gwanak-gu, Seoul, and repeatedly engaged in obscene remarks and sexual harassment, sparking public outrage. He pretended to be on a phone call while assessing their appearances or making sexually related comments amidst the morning commute crowd. One victim reportedly suffered severe stress and even sought counseling from relevant institutions.

Assemblywoman Yang Jeong-suk recently proposed a bill to punish such sexual harassment acts under the Minor Offenses Act. The bill stipulates fines up to 200,000 KRW, detention, or penalties for those who cause sexual humiliation or disgust through sexual behavior.

Assemblywoman Yang explained the background of the proposal, stating, "Because sexual harassment frequently occurs in public places such as streets or parks, victims feel sexual humiliation or shame and want the perpetrators punished, but the law does not clearly define this, making punishment difficult."

She also pointed out, "There are ongoing criticisms that social awareness regarding sexual harassment in public places has not improved."

The 'Act on Equal Employment and Support for Work-Family Balance' regulates sexual harassment occurring in the workplace and includes provisions for fines related to it. However, sexual harassment can occur regardless of location or relationship between parties, and even if it does not infringe on sexual self-determination rights, it cannot be taken lightly, the explanation added.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.