Why Are Only 4-5 Percent of Sexual Crime Suspects Arrested Each Year in South Korea?
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Synopsis
New data reveals that despite around 30,000 bookings for sexual crimes annually in South Korea, only a mere 4-5% lead to formal arrests. What does this mean for victims and the legal system? Explore the concerning trends in this alarming report.
Key Takeaways
- 30,000 sexual crime bookings annually.
- Only 4-5% lead to formal arrests.
- Arrest warrants issued for 5.35-6.62% of cases.
- Stalking crime arrests remain around 3%.
- Victim-centered decision-making is crucial.
Seoul, Sep 21 (NationPress) Approximately 30,000 individuals in South Korea have been recorded for sexual offenses annually over the last five years, yet only a small fraction has resulted in formal arrests, according to new data released on Sunday.
From 2020 through 2022, reports indicate that between 28,000 and 35,000 sexual crime cases involving booked suspects were documented each year, as per the National Police Agency data obtained by Rep. Chung Choon-saeng from the minor Rebuilding Korea Party.
These sex-related offenses encompass rape, indecent assault, illicit filming, obscene acts via telecommunications, and trespassing into multi-use facilities for sexual motives, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
The figures for those booked for these crimes totaled 28,135 in 2020, 29,013 in 2021, 35,656 in 2022, 34,996 in 2023, and 31,755 last year.
Among these cases, the percentage of suspects for whom police sought arrest warrants fluctuated between 5.35 to 6.62 percent each year.
The rate of issued arrest warrants was even lower, ranging from 4.02 to 5.1 percent of the total cases booked, as indicated by the data.
Specifically, the formal arrest rate for stalking crime suspects has remained around 3 percent during this period, despite the number of booked cases rising from 9,895 in 2022 to 11,520 in 2023 and 12,677 last year, according to the lawmaker.
"Investigative agencies must actively consider filing arrest warrants, and the judiciary should prioritize decisions that focus on the victim," Rep. Chung emphasized, highlighting the high risk of repeat offenses in cases of stalking and sexual abuse.
Point of View
It is imperative to highlight these stark statistics that reflect a troubling trend in South Korea's handling of sexual crimes. The low rate of formal arrests raises serious questions about the efficacy of the judicial system and its prioritization of victim rights.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of sexual crime suspects are arrested annually in South Korea?
Only 4-5% of sexual crime suspects are formally arrested each year.
How many sexual crimes are reported each year in South Korea?
Approximately 30,000 individuals are booked for sexual crimes annually.
What types of crimes are included in sexual offenses?
Sexual offenses include rape, indecent assault, illicit filming, obscene acts via telecommunications, and trespassing for sexual purposes.
What is the trend in stalking crime arrests?
The formal arrest rate for stalking crime suspects has remained around 3%, despite an increase in reported cases.
What actions does Rep. Chung recommend regarding arrests?
Rep. Chung urges investigative agencies to actively pursue arrest warrants and emphasizes prioritizing victim-focused decisions in the judiciary.
