Expansion of 130 Child Abuse Shelters and Protection Agencies Each... Budget and Departments Unified

Discussion on Follow-up Measures for Child Abuse Legislation at High-Level Strategy Meeting on the 11th

Lee Nak-yeon, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, is attending the Supreme Council meeting held at the National Assembly on the 8th and delivering opening remarks. Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Wondara] The Democratic Party of Korea has decided to expand 130 victim child shelters and 130 child protection agencies each as follow-up measures to legislation for the prevention of child abuse.

Choi In-ho, the senior spokesperson for the Democratic Party, said in a briefing after the high-level strategy meeting held at the National Assembly on the afternoon of the 11th, "Even if the first phase of legislation related to child abuse has been completed, follow-up measures are important," adding, "In particular, securing related budgets and personnel are two important follow-up tasks."

Regarding specific details, he said, "As of 2020, there are only 75 victim child shelters and 69 child protection agencies, and considering accessibility, there was a consensus that about 130 of each are needed nationwide."

He continued, "The budget for child abuse prevention and response is divided between the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Ministry of Justice, while the Ministry of Health and Welfare is the implementing agency, causing difficulties in project promotion. We reviewed this issue and agreed that it is time to unify these functions," adding, "The party is taking the lead in publicizing this and leading the measures through the meeting."

He also said, "The entities responsible for responding to child abuse cases are local governments, the police, and private organizations, and it is necessary to establish clear cooperation relationships among these entities. It was also discussed to encourage the swift establishment of such measures."

When asked about the timeline for expanding 130 victim child shelters and child protection agencies, Senior Spokesperson Choi said, "We will create a roadmap in consultation with the relevant ministries."

Regarding the source of increased budget, when asked if it would be allocated starting next year, he said, "If the government is determined and the party supports it, there could be contingency funds or other resources. We will prepare it in a very short time."

Regarding President Moon Jae-in's New Year's address held that day, he said, "We highly welcome the nationwide free COVID-19 vaccination," adding, "It showed hope and confidence to the entire nation in overcoming COVID-19. We agreed to immediately inform the public, share this, and create an atmosphere of joint celebration."

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