A South Korean pastor, once praised for aiding North Korean defectors, has been sentenced to five years in prison for sexually abusing minors, as reported by CNN. Chun Ki-won, formerly hailed as a hero, faced charges of molesting six teenage victims between 2016 and 2023. These victims were either North Korean refugees or children of refugees, according to the Seoul Central District Court.
The judge overseeing the case highlighted the severity of Chun’s actions, noting the circumstances, method, content, period, and number of crimes. Chun, who held a position of authority as a school principal, abused his absolute influence over the victims. The court emphasized the detrimental impact on the victims’ sexual values and their desire for justice.
Chun served as the head of the Christian aid organization Durihana, claiming to have assisted over 1,000 defectors in reaching Seoul since 1999. The organization operates a boarding school where North Korean children are taught the Christian faith, according to its website. However, Chun’s arrest and indictment last September for violating the Act on Sexual Protection of Children and Adolescents tarnished his reputation.
In addition to the prison sentence, the judge mandated Chun to undergo an 80-hour sexual violence-related treatment program. Furthermore, he will face employment restrictions for five years, particularly in organizations related to children and youth with disabilities.
The incident sheds light on the challenges faced by North Korean refugees attempting to flee to South Korea. These refugees often undertake perilous journeys through China, risking torture, sexual violence, hard labor, or even execution if returned to North Korea. Chun and Durihana were part of a network, reminiscent of the Underground Railroad, aiding refugees and victims of sex trafficking and exploitation.
A 2019 report by the London-based non-profit organization Korea Future Initiative revealed the plight of thousands of North Korean refugees abducted or trafficked into China’s lucrative sex trade. This underscores the broader issue of human trafficking and exploitation faced by vulnerable populations, necessitating continued efforts to combat such atrocities.
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