Support System for Crime Victims in South Korea
There are many options for support available to crime victims in South Korea. Understanding your rights and the available resources can make a significant difference during a difficult time. The legal experts at Pureum Law Office provide this comprehensive overview of the support system for crime victims in Korea, guiding you through each stage of the criminal procedure — from police investigation to trial — and outlining various legal, psychological, and financial assistance options.
Overview of Victim Support in Korea
The Police Stage
Questioning Process
Victims may find the initial investigation stage intimidating. If you feel nervous or vulnerable, you have the right to be accompanied by a support person — such as a trusted friend or family member — during police questioning. You may also take notes during the interview using the materials provided by the investigator.
Investigation Updates
You may request updates on your case and select your preferred method of communication, including phone, text, or email.
Possible Outcomes of a Police Investigation
- Referral to the court (juvenile crimes): Referred to the juvenile department of the court.
- Referral to the public prosecutor: If a crime is suspected.
- No referral: If no crime is suspected.
- Suspension of investigation: If the suspect cannot be located or other unavoidable circumstances arise.
Do you disagree with the Police’s Decision?
- If your case is not referred, you may file an objection with the chief of the police agency.
- If your case is suspended, you can appeal to the chief of the higher agency within 30 days. They must respond within 30 days, and you’ll be notified of the decision within 7 days.
The Prosecutor Stage
You may check the progress of your case by applying to the Prosecutor’s Office Public Service Center or Victim Support Center.
Possible outcomes of the Prosecutor’s Decision
- Prosecution: The case is forwarded to trial.
- Non-prosecution: No trial is pursued.
- Stay of prosecution: The case is paused due to unresolved factors.
- Suspension of prosecution: Charges accepted but trial is deemed unnecessary.
Do you disagree with the prosecutor’s decision? Here’s What You Can Do:
- Appeal: Request a reinvestigation from the High Prosecutors’ Office within 30 days.
- Application for adjudication: Request the prosecutor to prosecute by applying to the High Court within 10 days.
The Trial Stage
Victims can actively participate in the trial by:
- Making a statement on the damage suffered
- Sharing opinions on the appropriate punishment
If you’re anxious about attending court, you may request:
- Separation from the defendant
- A prior visit to the courtroom
- A closed trial
- Escort or protection services
You may also request access to court records or a copy of them via the judge.
Support Systems for Victims in Korea
Economic Support
- Crime Scene Cleaning Support: If your residence was a crime scene, you may qualify for specialized cleaning services through the Korean National Police Agency.
- Travel Expense Support: Victims of violent or sexual crimes required to travel to the police station between 6 PM and 6 AM may receive travel assistance.
- Medical and Financial Support: Depending on injury severity, victims may be eligible for medical expenses, ongoing treatment costs, and long-term financial aid.
- Compensation: If you feel inadequately compensated, speak with your investigating officer or prosecutor to explore your options.
Psychological Support
Being a victim — especially of a violent or sexual crime — can result in serious psychological trauma. Victims worried about retaliation may request protection from the police or prosecutor.
- If your Resident Registration Number (ARC) has been exposed, you can apply for a number change by contacting the Resident Registration Number Correction Center at 02-2100-4061~4065.
- Victims can request psychological counseling via the officer in charge.
- If you are the target of illegally shared media, services such as the Korea Communications Standards Commission, Digital Sex Crime Victim Support Center, and the Korea Cyber Sexual Violence Response Center can assist in deleting such content.
Legal Support
- The Korea Legal Aid Corporation offers free help drafting legal documents and navigating the judicial process.
- If you’re unable to recover financial losses through criminal court, civil courts may still award compensation — even without a full trial.
You’re Not Alone: Let Pureum Help
If you are a victim of a criminal offense, navigating the legal system in Korea can feel overwhelming — but you’re not alone. At Pureum Law Office, we are dedicated to supporting victims and helping them receive the justice they deserve. Whether you need legal advice, emotional support, or help accessing state resources, let us help.
Have questions? Email us at ask@pureumlawoffice.com — we’re here to support you.
This article is part of our ongoing series on criminal procedures and victims’ rights in Korea. For further guidance or legal representation, contact our office today.
