30s Academy Instructor Who Had Sexual Relations with Middle School Girl Receives Probation... "No Coercion and Agreement with Victim"

A 30-year-old academy instructor who had sexual relations multiple times with a minor student was sentenced to a suspended prison term.

[Asia Economy Reporter Hwang Sumi] A 30-year-old academy instructor who had sexual relations multiple times with a minor student was sentenced to a suspended prison term.

On the 12th, the 1st Criminal Division of the Pohang Branch of Daegu District Court (Chief Judge Kwon Sunhyang) announced that Mr. A (32), who was indicted on charges including statutory rape of a minor, was sentenced to 2 years and 6 months in prison with a 4-year suspension. He was also ordered to attend 40 hours of sexual violence treatment lectures and was banned from employment at child, adolescent, and disabled welfare facilities for 10 years. The probation request was dismissed.

Mr. A, who was an academy instructor, is accused of raping a female middle school student B (15), whom he met as a student, five times, forcibly molesting her twice, and committing one act of quasi-rape since March of last year. Mr. A committed these crimes while conducting private tutoring sessions alone with B.

The court judged that Mr. A's crimes did not involve coercion. The court stated, "He exploited the immature judgment of the young victim, who has not yet formed awareness or values regarding sexuality, and sexually objectified her to commit the crimes," but also noted, "It appears that he did not exercise strong power or coercive methods against the victim." The court also cited the fact that a settlement payment was made and that the victim and perpetrator reached an amicable agreement as reasons for sentencing.

Meanwhile, under the revised Criminal Act of May 2020, the statutory rape of minors now includes punishment for sexual intercourse or molestation with persons aged 13 to under 16, in addition to minors under 13. This is distinguished from rape by requiring violence or threats. Even if the victim consented, adults who engaged in such acts are subject to punishment.