54 Cases of Sexual Violence Reported in the Military... Reporting Period to Be Extended

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Military Specialist Reporter Yang Nak-gyu]During the special military sexual violence reporting period held from the 3rd to the 16th, 54 cases were reported.

On the 17th, Defense Ministry spokesperson Bu Seung-chan said at a regular briefing, "We are organizing the 54 cases reported during the special reporting period to determine which will be forwarded for investigation." The Defense Ministry decided to accept additional reports from that day until the 30th, following opinions that the two-week reporting period was insufficient.

The Defense Ministry explained the reason for the extension, stating, "We reflected opinions that there is hesitation to report due to the burden of having to report to unit commanders before notifying the Defense Ministry and distrust regarding confidentiality," adding, "There are also cases where victims hesitate to report."

Military personnel and civilian employees who have directly experienced or witnessed sexual violence crimes, or who have heard facts from victims, can report via email or other means.

The Defense Ministry changed the reporting email address to 'mndge@mnd.go.kr'. The 'ge' stands for 'gender equality,' the Ministry explained.

This change was made because the original email address (mndwomen@mnd.go.kr) included the word 'women,' which was criticized as inappropriate. It gave the impression that the Defense Ministry perceives all military sexual violence victims as female.

Sexual violence can occur regardless of gender at any time, and within the military, sexual violence among same-sex soldiers, such as regular enlisted personnel, also frequently occurs.