Suwon 'Seongin Festival' Opposition National Petition Surpasses 50,000 Signatures... Proposal to Amend Youth Protection Act

The city of Suwon in Gyeonggi Province, having successfully blocked the ‘Adult Festival (2024 K-XF The Fashion)’ near elementary schools together with its citizens, is now proposing amendments to the ‘Youth Protection Act’ to the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family to prevent similar cases from occurring, and is also pushing for the enactment of related ordinances.

Through its proposal for related law amendments, Suwon City conveyed to the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family that the term ‘business establishment’ should explicitly include ‘the venue of events or the organizers conducting business activities such as one-time sales, rentals, distribution, broadcasting, or performances.’

This position stems from Suwon City’s experience where it requested the cancellation of venue rental for adult-related events from the exhibition hall rental company, but faced difficulties in responding promptly due to the unclear definition of youth-harmful establishments.

The national petition opposing the Suwon City Adult Festival surpassed 50,000 signatures as of the 15th.

Taking this opportunity to respond to acts that create harmful environments for youth, Suwon City has decided to closely cooperate with the Suwon City Council and is promoting the enactment of the ‘Ordinance on Creating a Sound Social Environment for Youth in Suwon City.’

Mayor Lee Jae-jun of Suwon stated, "Surpassing 50,000 signatures on the National Assembly’s public petition is a result of Suwon City’s earnest wish and a victory for its citizens," and promised, "We will continue to take the lead in protecting youth so that they can grow up in a good environment."

Meanwhile, the public petition opposing the Adult Festival, which began on March 21, surpassed 50,000 signatures as of April 15 and was referred to the National Assembly’s Administrative and Security Committee. After committee review and adoption, it will be submitted to the plenary session for deliberation and then forwarded to the government. The National Assembly public petition requires 50,000 signatures within 30 days to proceed.