The Possibility and Regulation of Hate Crimes in Korea (2017.08)
2017.08.01
- Author : Gye-Won Jo
- Journal : Korean Journal of Law & Society
- Publisher : Korean Law & Society Association
- Volume : 55
- Publication Date : August, 2017
- Abstract : This paper aims to examine the possibility of hate crimes in Korean society and suggest a legal measure to regulate them. Hate crimes are criminal acts that occur when a perpetrator`s prejudice is motivated, and also referred to as bias crimes. The offences can be committed in whole or in part by prejudice, based on race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, nationality, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, or other characteristics. Although typical forms of hate crimes in Korean society are still very rare, there is a possibility that hate crimes will become social problems for following reasons. First, random crimes can turn into hate crimes. In fact, among the crimes classified as random crimes, it is possible to find cases in which hatred of a particular group such as a woman is presumed to be motive of crime. Second, as the number of foreigners and immigrants living in Korea increases, the phenomenon of xenophobia, which is unreasonable fear or hatred of foreigners, is emerging. In the United States and Europe, the xenophobia is associated with racism and right-wing extremism, resulting in political and social conflicts. In the case of Korea, discourses of anti-multiculturalism are increasing, and even claims which encourage violence are found. Third, hate speech and incitement to discrimination are spreading around the Internet. Considering this situation, Korea also needs to prevent hate crimes by enacting a hate crime law. The hate crime law can reduce the expressive effects of hate crimes and provide a wide range of deterrence effects by conveying a social message that our society does not tolerate these crimes. The hate crime law also helps to restore victim`s confidence trust in society by forming a perception that such crimes must be punished, and reduces the anxiety about being a potential victim that group members who share a particular characteristic with victim may have.