Photologue @theuostimes7
According to the Korean National Police Agency, the number of reported dating violence has increased every year over the past three years. However, only 4.4 percent of the total number of perpetrators were arrested. This shows the limitations of the punishment of dating violence.
In a survey conducted by The UOS Times on UOS students in 2016, some students answered that the primary reason for sexual harassment is "a lack of education and discipline." Like sexual harassment, the punishment of dating violence is very light, so perpetrators are not afraid of punishment and commit crimes. Moreover, although dating violence can be seen as a precursor to violent crime, it tends to be leniently disposed of as a problem arising from a love relationship between men and women. In Korea, punishment for dating violence almost cannot protect victims.
Under the current law, there is no separate punishment for dating violence, so dating violence is punished on the same basis as other crimes even if they commit murder, rape, imprisonment, and assault. While laws are enacted on domestic violence and sexual violence, there is a legal basis for regulation on the punishment of violent offenders or measures to protect victims, there is no separate law on dating violence or stalking in relationships. In addition, under the current law, victims of dating violence can apply for restraining orders to perpetrators. However, this is only indirectly forcing the perpetrator to pay the victim whenever he or she violates the restraining order. In this regard, there is a high possibility that secondary victimization could occur, and there are not enough legislation and measures to protect victims.
Furthermore, even if she or he feels threatened with dating violence, there is no punishment until there is direct damage to her body or property.
In many cases, the perpetrator persuades the victim, saying it is because the perpetrator loves the victim, or threatens to spread the victim's body photos and videos. Due to the nature of dating violence in which perpetrators and victims are in close relationships, many victims have difficulty in breaking off or responding immediately. Therefore, measures will be needed to ensure that victims of dating violence are protected.
