Korea shuts down over 60 websites distributing sexually exploitative material

Korean authorities have taken significant action this year to combat the distribution of sexually exploitative material online. In a coordinated effort between multiple agencies, over 60 illegal websites have been shut down, marking a sharp increase from the six websites closed in the previous year. The joint task force, comprising the gender equality ministry, the Korea Media and Communications Commission, and the National Police Agency, has been working to strengthen support for victims and crack down on digital sex crimes.

The crackdown focused on websites with servers located overseas that refused to work with authorities to remove illegal content. Police successfully caught 32 website operators involved in distributing such material. Additionally, authorities remotely deleted illegally filmed content on 16 of the 66 websites to prevent further distribution. Criminal proceeds amounting to 2.7 billion won ($2 million) were also seized during the operation.

As a result of these efforts, the number of websites with illegal material accessible to the public has decreased from 6,683 last month. This concerted interagency approach demonstrates Korea's commitment to addressing the growing issue of digital sex crimes and protecting its citizens from harmful online content.