If the victim of a sexual crime against a minor is a minor, is aggravated punishment imposed?

I will explain in detail the forcible indecent act among sexual crimes against minors.

Where the victim is under 19 years of age, the Act on the Protection of Children and Youth against Sex Offenses applies, imposing a heavier disposition than in cases where the victim is an adult.

According to Article 298 of the Criminal Act, a person who commits an indecent act against another by assault or intimidation is subject to imprisonment for up to 10 years or a fine of up to 15 million won.

By contrast, according to Article 7 of the Act on the Protection of Children and Youth against Sex Offenses, a person who commits a forcible indecent act against a minor is subject to imprisonment for a definite term of at least 2 years or a fine of at least 10 million won and up to 30 million won.

In this way, sexual crimes committed against victims vulnerable to crime, such as children, youths, persons with disabilities, and the elderly, are also designated as an aggravating factor in the sentencing guidelines.

When a person has committed a sexual crime against a minor, the sentence is by no means light, so it is advisable to respond systematically at the early stage of the case.

If you are involved in these charges, it is advantageous to find a solution through a thorough consultation with an attorney specializing in sexual crime cases who has handled many such cases.