Gender ministry offers counseling, housing to 371 stalking crime victims this year

▲ Gender Equality and Family Minister Kim Hyun-sook (R) visits an institution in charge of supporting victims of stalking crimes in Seoul, in this file photo provided by the gender ministry on Nov. 29, 2023. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

stalking victims-gender ministry

Gender ministry offers counseling, housing to 371 stalking crime victims this year

By Kim Hyun-soo

SEOUL, Dec. 29 (Yonhap) -- The Ministry of Gender Equality and Family said Friday it has provided accommodations and mental counseling to 371 victims of stalking crimes this year and will expand the support program next year.

In a pilot operation, run from July to November, 311 stalking crime victims received mental counseling and treatment programs, 52 people in urgent need of protection were given temporary lodging, and eight others were offered rental housing for up to six months, according to the ministry.

The gender ministry plans to expand the temporary housing support from six cities and provinces to 17 next year, citing relevant budget increases. Currently, those in need of urgent protection are offered one-room bedrooms or studios in six cities for up to 30 days.

It also said some 1 billion won (US$ 779,062) was newly allotted next year to expand the personnel at 55 counseling centers for victims of domestic and dating violence nationwide to provide custom counseling for the victims.

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