Underaged sex is dangerous and vile, mainly because it takes advantage of younger people who aren’t in a position of power to say no. Sadly, a 16-year-old South Korean girl was coerced into underaged sex, not once, not twice, but over 100 times since December last year.
According to the media, 69 foreign students and graduates are suspected to be involved in the case. They are being charged with rape and sexual bribery.
The case came to light yesterday (30th November), when the police announced the investigation. According to the police, the teenager had revealed the repeated rape incidents during a consultation with her teacher in August. She shared that the group of university students would often ask for sexual acts in return for favours and snacks.
Police believe that the group knew she was underaged. By Korean law, knowingly committing sexual acts with a minor allows the perpetrator to be charged with rape. Regretfully, all 69 foreign students and graduates are allegedly from Kyungdong University (경동대학교) in Gangwon.
Majority of the students are supposedly from Nepal and Bangladesh. 30 of them are currently studying in the university, with most of them living outside of campus. However, those who have graduated are suspected to have left for their home countries, attending graduate school or job-hunting. All 69 students and graduates are currently under a travel ban.
The university has responded to the incident, saying “Although it is a problem caused by individuals, the school also feels responsible for (the) management (of our students).”
Although studying overseas is greatly encouraged as it allows students to expand their horizons, it is worrisome when it brings trouble instead. Hopefully the police will be able to bring the group to justice.
Sources: Daily News, China Press, The Korea Herald
