Former sex workers from near U.S. bases seek truth panel probe into rights violations

A group of former sex workers from now-defunct brothels around U.S. military bases in Korea called on the state's truth panel Wednesday to investigate state-sponsored human rights abuses against them.

The group, joined by women's rights and other civic groups, urged the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to investigate their claims, saying the government encouraged prostitution through the brothels, violating their rights.

The victims have accused the government of abetting these practices by systematically designating areas for prostitution and allowing the establishments to operate.

In a press conference, the groups said some of the victims who did not have health certificates were detained and forced to undergo examinations and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases.

"[We] strongly request that the victims' dignity and honor be restored through the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's investigation,” the groups said.

They also chanted slogans calling on the Korean and U.S. governments to apologize for the abuses.

In 2022, the Supreme Court recognized the state's responsibility for such brothels, known as gijichon in Korean, and ordered the state to pay between 3 million ($2,000) and 7 million won in compensation each to a total of 95 former sex workers.

Another damages suit against the government involving 117 former sex workers from the brothels is currently underway.

Yonhap