Safety Net for Families of Crime Victims Strengthened, Minimum Compensation Raised Fivefold

[The Financial News] The minimum state compensation paid to families of people who die as a result of crime will be raised from 16 million won to 82 million won. The new floor corresponds to two years’ worth of the average monthly wage of 3.44 million won, and is expected to significantly strengthen the safety net for crime victims and their families.
According to the Ministry of Justice on the 10th, an amendment to the Enforcement Decree of the Crime Victim Protection Act, which increases crime victim compensation and strengthens protection for dependents of deceased crime victims, takes effect today.
Under the revision, the minimum amount of compensation that bereaved families can receive will rise to about 82 million won, more than four times the previous 16 million won. The amendment also adjusts the order of eligible relatives so that compensation is paid first to family members who depended on the victim for their livelihood, and extends the age up to which children and grandchildren can receive additional compensation from 18 to 24.
Justice Minister Jeong Seong-ho stated, "It is the state’s natural duty to protect its people," adding, "In particular, the state will take full responsibility for supporting and protecting citizens and their families who have suffered harm from crime."

hwlee@fnnews.com Lee Hwan-joo Reporter