South Korea jails former hero pastor for sexually abusing North Korean teenage defectors
A South Korean pastor, once hailed as a hero for his efforts in aiding North Korean defectors to safety, has now been sentenced to five years in prison for sexually abusing minors.
Chun Ki-won, head of the Christian aid organization Durihana, was found guilty of abusing six teenage victims between 2016 and 2023. These victims, all either North Korean refugees or children of refugees, suffered at the hands of Chun, who held a position of authority as a school principal.
The Seoul Central District Court condemned Chun's actions, stating, "The nature of the crime was egregious considering the circumstances, method, content, period, and number of offenses." The court further noted the detrimental impact on the victims' sexual values and emphasized their desire for justice.
Chun, known for his work in assisting over 1,000 defectors to Seoul since 1999, faces consequences beyond imprisonment. He is mandated to complete an 80-hour sexual violence treatment program and is barred from employment in organizations related to children and youth with disabilities for five years.
Refugees fleeing North Korea often traverse through China, where they face deportation as illegal economic migrants rather than being recognized as refugees. This places them at risk of severe punishment upon their return to North Korea, including torture, sexual violence, and imprisonment.
Inspired by the Underground Railroad, Korean pastors like Chun have established secret routes and safe houses to aid these vulnerable individuals. Despite Chun's betrayal of trust, the network remains a crucial lifeline for victims of sex trafficking and exploitation, providing hope for those seeking escape.
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