Child Welfare Act (Adong Bokjibeop)
The Child Welfare Act (Adong Bokjibeop) establishes the framework for child welfare and protection in South Korea. Originally enacted in 1961, the Act defines the rights of children, the duties of parents, and the obligations of the government to ensure the welfare of children. The Act has been progressively strengthened to address child abuse, child labour, and children’s rights.
Legal area: Law governing the welfare, protection, and rights of children.
Year enacted: 1961
Full text: https://elaw.klri.re.kr/eng_service/law_view.do?hseq=south-korea-child-welfare-act
Key Provisions
- Chapter I: General provisions (rights and duties regarding children)
- Chapter II: Welfare of children requiring protection
- Chapter III: Child welfare services (institutions, programmes)
- Chapter IV: Protection of children from abuse and neglect
- Chapter V: Adoption and guardianship
- Chapter VI: Penalties for child abuse and exploitation
Significance
The Child Welfare Act provides the legal foundation for child protection in South Korea. The Act has been significantly amended in response to high-profile child abuse cases. South Korea ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1991, and the Act has been progressively amended to reflect its principles. The Act has been strengthened to address online child exploitation and to improve the child protection system. South Korea has faced challenges in addressing child abuse and improving the foster care system.