Introduction
Domestic violence is a pressing global issue that affects millions of people across all social and economic backgrounds. Governments hold the key to addressing this crisis through strong legal frameworks, law enforcement policies, and victim support systems. This article compares South Korea’s approach with Australia’s progressive policies and explores what governments worldwide can do to combat domestic abuse more effectively.
1. Domestic Violence in South Korea: A Legal and Social Perspective
South Korea has taken steps to address domestic violence, but significant gaps remain.
🔹 Legal Framework & Limitations
- South Korea enacted the Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Domestic Violence Crimes and the Domestic Violence Prevention and Victim Protection Act in 1997.
- However, courts often favor family reconciliation over strict punishment, leading to weak enforcement.
- In 2023, only 20% of domestic violence cases resulted in prosecution, according to police reports.
🔹 Social and Cultural Barriers
- Domestic violence is often viewed as a private family matter.
- Many victims fear social stigma and economic instability if they leave abusive relationships.
- A 2022 survey found that over 60% of domestic violence victims in South Korea did not report their abuse due to fear of retaliation or disbelief from authorities.
🔹 Law Enforcement and Judicial Challenges
- South Korea’s conviction rate for domestic violence cases remains low, with many cases dismissed or resulting in minimal penalties.
- Police officers and judges often lack specialized training to recognize and handle domestic abuse cases effectively.
2. Australia’s Progressive Approach: Criminalizing Coercive Control
Australia has taken significant strides in expanding the legal definition of domestic violence.
🔹 Recognition of Coercive Control
- Unlike South Korea, Australia recognizes coercive control as a form of domestic violence.
- This includes financial control, emotional manipulation, and social isolation.
- In 2023, Australia introduced the Coercive Control Principles, and from 2025, Queensland will criminalize coercive control, with penalties of up to 14 years in prison.
🔹 Improved Law Enforcement & Victim Protection
- Australian police have dedicated domestic violence units trained to handle cases with sensitivity.
- The legal system prioritizes removing the perpetrator from the home rather than forcing the victim to flee.
🔹 Government Support & Funding
- The Australian government has allocated AUD 35 million (~319 billion KRW) to the Centre of Excellence for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (CEVAW).
- This initiative funds research and policy development across six universities and 45 international partners.
3. The Role of Legislation in Shaping Societal Norms
🔹 Clear Legal Definitions Matter
- Countries that define coercive control as a crime provide stronger protection for victims.
- The UK, Australia, and Canada have implemented such laws, leading to increased prosecutions and victim support.
🔹 Law Enforcement & Judicial Reform
- Police officers and judges must undergo specialized domestic violence training.
- Governments should implement mandatory sentencing guidelines to prevent leniency in domestic abuse cases.
🔹 Public Awareness & Cultural Change
- Education campaigns should challenge gender-based power dynamics that fuel domestic violence.
- Sweden and Norway have integrated gender equality education into school curriculums, leading to lower domestic violence rates.
4. Global Lessons & Policy Recommendations
Governments worldwide can take the following steps to improve domestic violence responses:
✅ Expand Legal Definitions: Recognize psychological and financial abuse, not just physical violence.
✅ Strengthen Law Enforcement: Train police and judges to handle domestic violence cases with sensitivity.
✅ Increase Victim Support: Provide accessible shelters, financial aid, and mental health services.
✅ Promote Gender Equality: Integrate gender education programs into national curricula.
✅ Encourage Public Reporting: Implement anonymous reporting options and legal protections for whistleblowers.
Conclusion
Domestic violence is a human rights issue that requires a comprehensive, government-led response. South Korea can learn from Australia’s progressive policies, particularly in criminalizing coercive control and strengthening law enforcement efforts. By improving legal frameworks, enhancing victim support, and addressing cultural barriers, governments can take meaningful steps toward ending domestic violence.
