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Debate on Lowering the Age of Criminal Responsibility in South Korea

The video features a debate among three contributors regarding whether the age of criminal responsibility for juvenile offenders in South Korea should be lowered. The discussion focuses on the effectiveness of punishment versus addressing underlying social issues.

Arguments in Favor of Lowering the Age

One presenter supports lowering the age unconditionally, arguing that punishment should be applied to the offender regardless of whether it immediately reduces crime.
They emphasize the need for stronger enforcement of laws and policies and suggest that lowering the age limit could be a necessary step if current measures fail.
The rise in juvenile crime cases—from 8,600 to 19,000—indicates a need for tangible preventive measures, including stricter punishment.
The idea of holding parents accountable for their children’s crimes, as practiced in the U.S., is proposed as a way to reduce juvenile delinquency and recidivism.

Arguments Against Lowering the Age

Another presenter disagrees, stating that punishment alone is not the solution and that many juvenile crimes stem from family and social environment problems.
They stress the importance of creating social systems that prevent crime before it occurs, including better family support and rehabilitation programs.
The current Juvenile Act, if properly enforced, is seen as sufficient.
They caution that simply lowering the age without addressing societal root causes will not solve the problem.
Examples are given of juvenile offenders, including serious sexual assault cases, where the legal system failed to impose adequate punishment due to procedural issues and leniency towards youth.
The victim’s perspective is highlighted, emphasizing that justice and support for victims are crucial, and that punishment alone does not guarantee victim recovery.
The need for individualized diagnosis and tailored intervention for juvenile offenders is stressed, requiring human effort, budget, and sustained attention.

Common Ground and Additional Points

Both sides agree that strengthening punishment alone is insufficient without addressing broader social issues.
There is a call for more research into why juvenile crimes occur and how to effectively prevent them.
The discussion acknowledges systemic problems in society that contribute to juvenile crime, such as lack of support systems and inadequate enforcement.
The importance of balancing victim rights, offender rehabilitation, and societal safety is emphasized.