Middle School Teacher Given Probation for Two Counts of Sexual Misconduct Against Adolescent Student, Claiming "Men and Women Have Different Bodies"

1st Trial "Victim's Side Agreement, Consideration of School Dismissal Disciplinary Action"

A teacher who sexually assaulted a teenage student twice was sentenced to a suspended prison term. The photo is unrelated to the article content. [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Daehyun] A teacher who sexually harassed a middle school student and repeatedly committed the crime after calling her out even after she became a high school student was sentenced to a suspended prison term in the first trial.

According to the court on the 19th, the Seoul Central District Court Criminal Division 31 (Presiding Judge Lee Jungmin) recently sentenced teacher A, who was indicted for violating the Act on the Protection of Children and Juveniles from Sexual Abuse (forcible molestation), to one year in prison with a two-year suspension. He was also ordered to complete a 40-hour sexual violence treatment program and was banned from employment at child and disability-related institutions for three years.

The court stated, "Although he was in a position as a teacher to guide and protect students, he molested a 15-16-year-old victim who was a student and a juvenile, which is a very serious offense," but added, "Considering that the defendant is remorseful and a first-time offender, that the victim who reached a smooth agreement does not wish for punishment against the defendant, and that he was dismissed from the school where he worked due to this incident, the sentencing conditions were comprehensively considered."

Earlier, A was prosecuted on charges of suddenly grabbing the shoulder of Ms. B, who was counseling in the music room on the 5th floor of a girls' middle school in January 2019, hugging her strongly for 10 minutes, and attempting sexual advances by saying, "Men and women’s bodies are different, but since you are a minor, I cannot say things you dislike."

He is also accused of calling Ms. B, who was attending the second semester of high school in the fall of the same year, again and molesting her by saying, "May I kiss you?" and caressing her.

A denied the charges during the investigation stage but admitted all charges in court. As he changed his stance, the disciplinary procedure within the school, which had been halted, resumed and eventually led to his dismissal.

In the previous sentencing hearing, the prosecutor requested the court to sentence him to two years in prison, stating, "The crime was committed against a victim who emotionally relied on him during counseling while he was working as a teacher, making the offense particularly serious."

On the other hand, A’s defense attorney appealed for leniency, saying, "The defendant admits all charges and sincerely reflects and apologizes. He has now left the teaching profession and has realized that he must never commit a crime. He is currently responsible for supporting his family by doing miscellaneous work at a construction site."

A also made a final statement, saying, "I reflect on my actions. I will live my life quietly for my family."