President Lee Jae Myung has brought up the topic of reducing the age of criminal minors (juvenile offenders), while the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has chosen to voice its disagreement.
The NHRC conducted its 5th Standing Committee meeting on the 26th and decided to stand against reducing the age of juvenile offenders. The commission had previously rejected the proposal in 2007, 2018, and 2022, arguing that it is “ineffective in preventing youth crime and not advisable from the viewpoints of international human rights and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.”
Kim Hak-ja, a member of the commission, said, “The fundamental rule is that our opposition must continue unless there are exceptional situations.” Lee Sook-jin, another commission member, highlighted the importance of reiterating the opposition or making a declaration, while Chairman Ahn Chang-ho noted, “We will consult with the secretary-general and then reveal our stance.”
Young offenders are people between the ages of 10 and 14 who engage in illegal activities. Because they are seen as not fully responsible for their actions, they are given support programs like community work or sent to specialized institutions rather than facing traditional penalties.
Previously, on the 24th, during a Cabinet session, President Lee Jae Myung addressed a report from Lee Jin-soo, the Deputy Minister of Justice, who suggested reducing the age of juvenile offenders from 14 to 13 years. He stated, “It appears that the majority of the public believes ‘at minimum, the age should be reduced by one year.’ The most logical approach would be to determine whether they are in elementary or middle school.” He further mentioned, “Collect public views and make a decision within two months,” establishing a deadline.
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