Attorney specializing in sex crimes, I was forced into prostitution, but I cannot bring myself to report it for fear that I too will be punished.

Hello. I am an attorney specializing in sex crimes at Daeryun Law LLC.

To answer directly, if you were forced into prostitution, you are not punished.

In other words, if you were forced into prostitution through deception or coercion regardless of your own will, you are legally recognized as a 'victim of prostitution' and are not punished for the act of prostitution itself.

The Act on the Punishment of Acts of Arranging Sexual Traffic, etc. clearly defines a 'victim of prostitution,' and accordingly, in the following cases a person is recognized as a victim of prostitution and is exempt from punishment.

▷ A person who was forced into prostitution through deception, coercion, or a comparable oppressive method

▷ A person who engaged in prostitution while addicted to narcotics or psychotropic drugs within a relationship of protection or supervision, such as a work or employment relationship

▷ A person who was led into prostitution by deception or inducement, such as a minor or a person who lacks decision-making capacity or who would find normal social life difficult without the protection of others

▷ A victim of human trafficking for the purpose of prostitution

Therefore, if you were in a situation where you were forced, you are not subject to punishment but can receive legal protection as a victim.

However, since the specific legal response methods or procedures may vary depending on your situation, we recommend that you consult with an attorney specializing in sex crimes soon and obtain accurate advice.