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With a youthful voice that sounded as though it had not yet gone through puberty, the child hurled harsh words. It was what an elementary school student said to a middle school student who was driving without a license during a livestream.

At around 10 p.m. on the 1st, in the Songdo-dong area of Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, middle school student A, 15, and elementary school student B, 12, were suspected of taking turns driving a passenger car without a license for approximately 13 kilometers.

(Omitted)

Some believe that unlicensed driving by minors continues because the level of punishment is too low. Attorney Chon Hyeong Hwan of YK Law Firm explained, “In general, when adults drive without a license, they are immediately subject to criminal proceedings, and first-time offenders usually receive a fine. However, many cases involve people caught after their licenses were revoked due to drunk driving, and in such cases they may receive a prison sentence with suspension of execution or heavier punishment. If the offense is repeated, they may even receive an actual prison sentence.”

He continued, “Minors are subject to special provisions under the Juvenile Act, so unless the consequences of the offense are serious, they are usually sent to the juvenile division and receive protective measures.” He pointed out, “I believe people describe this as a slap-on-the-wrist punishment because minors are aware of this and exploit it.”

He also emphasized, “Therefore, lowering the age of criminal minors could be one possible measure. There is a need to impose stronger punishment to better reflect social realities.”

Source: Segye Ilbo, Reporter Kim Ji-ho, “‘I Stole My Dad’s Car’… Nearly 3,000 Cases of Unlicensed Driving Accidents by Minors Over Five Years [Midnight Issue],” January 2, 2024.
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