"Absolutely No Prostitution in Laos" Korean Embassy Issues Public Warning

Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Laos Issues "Warning"
Punishable Both Locally and in Korea Under the Principle of Nationality Jurisdiction

Luang Prabang Airport in Laos (photo to aid understanding of the article). Photo by Asia Economy Database

Amid controversy over crimes involving the prostitution of minors in Laos, which has been cited as a destination for sex tourism by some South Korean travelers, the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Laos has issued a warning to Korean tourists, stating that they may be subject to punishment under relevant laws.

On the 18th, the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Laos announced in a notice, "We have received reports that some of our citizens visiting Laos are engaging in illegal activities that violate public morals."

The embassy further stated, "Prostitution not only severely damages the national image of South Korea, but also undermines the trust built by the Korean community in Laos. Please be aware that prostitution is subject to criminal punishment under the Lao legal provisions outlined below, and take care not to become involved in such crimes."

According to Article 260 of the Lao Penal Code, which concerns prostitution, those engaged in prostitution, as well as those who aid or abet prostitution, may be sentenced to three months to one year of imprisonment or detention and may also be fined. In addition, under Article 250 of the Penal Code concerning sexual intercourse with minors, anyone who provides money or other benefits, or uses other means to have intercourse with a minor under the age of 18, may be sentenced as follows: one to three years in prison for minors aged 15 to 17, three to five years for minors aged 12 to 14, and 10 to 15 years for minors under the age of 12, along with fines.

Because South Korea follows the principle of nationality jurisdiction, individuals may be prosecuted under Korean law in addition to local criminal punishment. According to the 2022 "Research Report on the Status and Countermeasures of Prostitution" by the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family, 25.8% of those who had purchased sex in the past year responded that they had done so overseas, indicating the need for countermeasures at this time.