Number of 'Statement Assistance' Cases for Minor Sexual Violence Victims in November Up 40% Year-on-Year

After the Sexual Violence Punishment Act, which expands legal support for minor and disabled sexual violence victims, was enacted, the number of cases supported by testimony assistants last month increased by about 40% compared to the same period last year.

According to the Ministry of Justice on the 30th, the number of testimony assistant support cases last month totaled 221, a 40% increase compared to 153 cases during the same period last year. The testimony assistant system is designed to help victims of sexual violence and child abuse fully express their intentions during investigation and trial procedures.

The Ministry of Justice revised the Sexual Violence Punishment Act in July to protect minor and disabled sexual violence victims from secondary harm, and it has been in effect since October 12. According to the revised law, the eligibility for testimony assistant support, which was previously for those under 13 years old, has been expanded to those under 19 years old.

In addition, the law includes protective measures for minor and disabled sexual violence victims, such as mandatory protection measures by investigative agencies and courts, mandatory support by public defenders, prior confirmation of victim witness examination matters, and the principle of using initial investigation locations like sunflower centers for remote witness examinations.

The Ministry of Justice stated, "We will make every effort to ensure that minor and disabled sexual violence victims do not suffer secondary harm through the implementation of the revised law," and added, "We will continue legal policies that consider socially vulnerable groups and protect victims without any gaps."

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