After the news about the physical and sexual assault of Olympic winning skater Shim Suk-he South Korea is taking measures. Today, Vice Sports Minister, Roh Tae-kang held a conference to announce their plans to wipe out sexual misconduct in sports. Thus, South Korea to Ban Sex Offenders from Sports for Life and will review and change all existing rules.
In addition, to their announcement, the sports ministry made a public apology. He said, “I apologize to the athlete, her parents and all citizens for being unable to prevent an incident like this”.
Furthermore, more, he spoke about the government‘s past efforts not being enough to stop sexual abuse in sports. Thus, they will re-examine current measures to stop sexual harassment and implement even more drastic and effective measures.
Sports Ban for Life for those convicted of Grave Sexual Assault
According to Bookie Pay Per Head coverage of the announcement, South Korea will first strengthen the punishment for sex offenders. Under the old Olympic Committee rules, only people who commit rape would receive a ban on sports for life. The new rule states that anyone who commits severe sexual harassment and abuse can also receive a lifetime sports ban.
Furthermore, the ministry said they will also block sex offenders from working any other jobs in the Korean sports industry. In addition, the sports committee will create a communication system, with other sports organizations. This is because they want to be able to share and cooperate with each other against sex offenders.
One such example as to why such a system is necessary is because of Cho Jae-beom. His punishment for his crime was a 10-month jail sentence and a lifetime ban from the Korean skating Union. However, after the incident, Cho tried to get a new coaching position in China where he could continue his abuse.
Furthermore, the ministry will create a task force to review the rules of each sports organization in towards sex crimes. Internet Gaming sites in Korea believe this is a good start but that more is necessary to change public perception.