President Lee Calls for Swift Legislation to Lower Age of Criminal Responsibility

President Lee Jae-myung said today (the 25th), "I hope a prompt conclusion can be reached regarding the issue of lowering the age limit for juvenile delinquents exempt from criminal punishment."

Presiding over a Cabinet meeting at the Blue House this morning, President Lee made the remarks, stating, "It seems this issue has been delayed for too long."

He then summarized the flow of discussions so far, noting, "The scope is determined. It is about lowering the age standard for juvenile delinquents regarding serious and repeat offenses by a range of 1 to 2 years."

He repeatedly urged, "I hope we can check public opinion on this matter once more, organize it early, and push for legislation."

Remarks were also made regarding the so-called controversy over "retroactive lump-sum payments for the National Pension by foreigners," where foreigners pay only one month's worth of insurance premiums and make lump-sum payments for up to 119 months of past residency periods to receive a lifelong pension.

President Lee ordered, "When a system is designed, it cannot be perfect, leaving loopholes. When these loopholes are discovered, supplements are needed to plug them as quickly as possible," adding, "Please come up with alternatives swiftly."

(Photo: Blue House Press Corps, Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.