Overview
Grooming is the process by which an offender gains a child’s trust, isolates them and moves towards sexual exploitation while securing secrecy (Craven et al., 2006; Whittle et al., 2013). In Korea, Article 15-2 of the Act on the Protection of Children and Youth against Sex Offenses (in force 24 September 2021) punishes adults who, for sexual exploitation, repeatedly engage minors in sexual conversation online or entice them into sexual acts; Article 25-2 allows undercover investigation. Warning signs include secret online friends, unexplained gifts and sudden withdrawal. Preserve evidence and report (Korea: 112, 1366). Related: gaslighting.
This article is general information based on Korean statutes and case law, not legal advice. For a specific case, consult a lawyer or the Korea Legal Aid Corporation (132). Check law.go.kr for current law.
Frequently asked questions
- Is it a crime without meeting in person?
- Yes, in Korea the online conduct itself is punishable.
References
- 「아동·청소년의 성보호에 관한 법률」 제15조의2(아동·청소년에 대한 성착취 목적 대화 등), 제25조의2(아동·청소년대상 디지털 성범죄의 수사 특례). 국가법령정보센터.
- Craven, S., Brown, S., & Gilchrist, E. (2006). Sexual grooming of children: Review of literature and theoretical considerations. Journal of Sexual Aggression, 12(3), 287–299.
- Whittle, H., Hamilton-Giachritsis, C., Beech, A., & Collings, G. (2013). A review of online grooming: Characteristics and concerns. Aggression and Violent Behavior, 18(1), 62–70.
- 여성가족부·한국여성인권진흥원. 디지털성범죄피해자지원센터 안내.