A bill has been proposed to introduce stronger protection of victims and harsher punishment for stalking by a minor party lawmaker on Saturday.

Rep. Kim Je-nam from the Progressive Justice Party said she is pushing to introduce a separate law to ensure better protection of victims from stalking such as by applying criminal penalties for the offense that is currently considered a misdemeanor.

Stalking ― currently defined as making approaches, watching or following a person against his or her explicit will ― has been punishable by the Minor Offenses Act since last March. But the minor penalty of up to 100,000 won ($86) has ignited criticism from the public for being insufficient as social awareness escalated over the seriousness of the crime.

Kim’s bill defines stalking as “repetitive approaching or unwanted following by one person against another without any justifiable reasons.”

When a complaint is filed, authorities would be obligated to investigate the case by surveying the neighborhood and other areas frequented by the alleged victim. If the survey finds the complaint to be valid, the offender will be notified of a warning and possible confinement.

The police may also take victims to protective shelters or provide security upon their request to keep them safe from potential retaliation after investigation.

Kim said the bill was aimed at adding criminal punishment against stalkers and protect and support the victims for the crime, which can cause extensive psychological and physical damage to the victims and their families.

By Lee Hyun-jeong (rene@heraldcorp.com)