Lee seeks public debate on juvenile age cut

Feb 25, 2026, 07:46 am

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President Lee Jae-myung speaks during a Cabinet meeting at the presidential office in Seoul on Feb. 24. /Yonhap

President Lee Jae-myung on Feb. 24 proposed reaching a conclusion within two months on whether to lower the age of criminal responsibility for juveniles from 14 to 13, calling for inter-ministerial review and public consultation.

Speaking at a Cabinet meeting at the presidential office in Seoul, Lee said relevant ministries should organize key issues, gather public opinion and engage in scientific debate before making a final decision.

“Let the relevant ministries sort out the issues, collect public opinion and go through scientific discussions, and then reach a conclusion in about two months,” Lee said after receiving a report on the proposal.

However, Lee also acknowledged concerns raised by Won Min-kyung, Minister of Gender Equality and Family, who stressed the need for broader social discussion.

“The failure of a child is the failure of society. We should reflect on whether society has presented a vision for a happy life for young people,” Won said, emphasizing the need for a public consensus-building process. Lee responded that her remarks were “a valid point.”

At the same time, Lee noted that “an overwhelming majority seems to think the age should be lowered by at least one year,” and instructed the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family to lead a public discussion process.

Under the current system, juveniles under the age of 14 are exempt from criminal punishment. However, growing public concern over serious crimes committed by minors has fueled calls to lower the age threshold.

#Lee Jae-myung #juvenile law #age of criminal responsibility