The seriousness of dating violence between couples
Dating violence has become a serious social issue
Reporter Lee Su-bin
backpackss@naver.com
Last March, a footage of security camera which showed a boyfriend's violent and abusive language, has spread over the internet. There was a lot of controversy about 'dating violence'. Most of the cases start with a minor altercation and lead to violence, but the seriousness is increasing day by day.
The frequency of dating violent crimes is increasing on a daily basis. According to the data released by the police, a total of 8,367 people were arrested for dating violence in 2016. In average, 23 people per day were arrested using violence against their lover. From 2011 to 2015, there were 233 victims of dating violence for five years. An average of 47 people has died per year due to dating violence. Violence among couples is a result of simple struggles, differences in values, and conflicts of opinions. In other words, lack of respect for each other is the main reason.
Pusan National University student Park Su-jin said, "Just a few years ago, dating violence also occurred between couples, so it was considered private. Therefore, even if damage occurs, it would be taken for granted to solve it privately. Sadly, there are still a lot of people who think that this violence is a matter of the couple themselves. The situation is serious enough to the point where a new word 'safety breakup' has been made. It seems that many people still overlook the fact that they are only victims and perpetrators at the moment of the violence, even if they love. Perpetrators hiding behind the superficial sense of love should be strictly punished."
One of the dating violence victims, Han Ga-yeon(assumed name) said, "Initially, we began to quarrel with a minor difference in the male and female values. Failure to understand each other made the situation worse and spread to an emotional fight. A petty argument grew into a physical fight. As I fell down, my body got bruised and my lips burst. I was so shocked at the time and confused whether he was the one who loved me. I was afraid of his revenge and could not report it easily. I was mentally distressed and got counseling from a woman's emergency telephone (1366) for the dating violence. I still have an after effect. I hope that a law focusing on the punishment of the perpetrator and ensuring victims' safety will be proposed. Victims like me shouldn't be made anymore."
Citizens are increasingly demanding severe punishment for those who commit dating violence crimes.
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