Not only sex offenders but also stalking offenders can now be fitted with electronic monitoring devices (electronic anklets) for location tracking, and victim protection will be strengthened in line with the enforcement of the amended Stalking Punishment Act.
On the 20th, the Ministry of Justice announced that it will apply the enhanced 'Electronic Monitoring Victim Protection System' under the amended law, which will take effect on January 12 next year, to effectively block stalking offenders from approaching their victims.
The improvement plan includes the introduction of a 'Stalker Location Information Victim Alert System' that automatically sends the offender's location information via text message to the victim when the stalking offender approaches within a certain distance of the victim.
As a result, victims will be able to directly and more quickly learn about the offender's approach, which previously could only be known through the location tracking control center.
The portability of the protective device (a wrist-worn smartwatch) provided to victims by the responsible agency will also be greatly improved.
The Ministry of Justice plans to develop a victim protection mobile application (app) by the second half of 2024 so that victims can use protection services even if they do not carry the protective device. Once the app is developed, probation officers will be able to check whether the offender is approaching without the victim having to carry the protective device, which is expected to alleviate the inconvenience victims previously experienced by having to carry the device at all times, the Ministry explained.
Han Dong-hoon, Minister of Justice, said, "The victim alert system, protective device, and mobile application developed this time are expected to help victims feel more secure in their daily lives," adding, "The Ministry of Justice will continue to swiftly implement victim-centered policies."
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