Even Secretly Accessing a Partner's SNS Counts as Stalking… Punishment Proposed for 9 Types of Behavior
On November 3, the Ministry of Justice announced that it is pursuing an amendment to the Anti-Stalking Act to criminalize nine types of controlling behavior between romantic partners as stalking.
Secretly accessing a partner's social media without consent to view their information would also be subject to punishment. Exposure and threats would likewise be regulated. These include spreading private information or false facts — or threatening to do so — at the victim's workplace or school, and threatening to harm not only the victim but also their family members or pets. Acts of isolation, such as preventing or cutting off the victim's contact with family, friends, and colleagues, are also included in the scope of punishment.
If the law is amended, protective measures will also be expedited. Interim measures — such as restraining orders prohibiting approach within 100 meters or contact by phone or text — could be enforced from the outset. Repeated offenses would carry a prison term of up to three years or a fine of up to 30 million won.
However, the law is still at the amendment proposal stage and must pass the National Assembly before taking effect. Victims who feel immediately threatened can report to 112 for assistance.
