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Reported by Elina Kozhokeldieva, Rosangela Buono
Edited by Gangmin Kim
Seoul, South Korea – Experiencing a decade-high surge in drug abuse, South Korea registers over 12,500 arrests within eight months. In response, the government launches an aggressive anti-drug campaign, planning 17 new rehab centers to address addiction and tackle societal challenges, including the intricate link between mental health and substance abuse.
South Korea is grappling with a concerning surge in drug abuse, as evidenced by a substantial increase in arrests during the first eight months of this year. The National Police Agency (NPA) reports that more than 12,500 individuals have been apprehended, surpassing the previous year's figures and marking the highest arrest rate in the past decade. In response to this alarming trend, the government has declared a renewed war on drugs.
In a resolute move to combat the growing threat of drug abuse, the government convened the 5th Anti-Drug Council Summit at the Government Seoul Complex on June 2nd, 2023. Led by Minister of State Affairs Bang Mun-gyu, the summit brought together an array of key government agencies.
Minister Bang Mun-gyu stated, "Our country is at a significant crossroads, whether it will descend into a drug-contaminated state or return as a drug-free nation." Emphasizing the gravity of the situation, he pledged that the government would implement a robust anti-drug strategy to ensure the nation's return to a drug-free status.
Annually, the council releases a three-pronged comprehensive strategy focusing on demand reduction, supply control, and international collaboration.
The first category, demand reduction, places a strong emphasis on treatment and rehabilitation initiatives to address the root causes of drug addiction. The government is committed to implementing measures that facilitate the recovery and well-being of individuals grappling with drug dependency.
In the realm of supply control, the government is determined to take decisive actions to apprehend those involved in drug-related activities. This involves a multifaceted approach to law enforcement, aiming to curtail the illicit production and distribution of narcotics within the country.
International collaboration is the third pillar of Korea's anti-drug strategy, acknowledging the global nature of the issue. By fostering cooperation with international partners, the government seeks to strengthen its efforts in combating the transnational aspects of drug trafficking and related crimes.
Addressing a critical gap in the country's response to drug addiction, the government has announced plans to establish 17 new drug rehabilitation centers across Korea. This strategic initiative is a significant departure from past policies, as the nation currently only boasts six drug rehabilitation centers. The move underscores the government's commitment to providing effective treatment options and fostering a supportive environment for individuals struggling with drug addiction.
Professor Hyung-Ui Baek from Department of Mental Health and Social Welfare of Eulji University states “The recidivism rate is very high, so we no longer focus on punitive punishment. Currently, there is an emphasis on local drug addiction centers and various programs.”
Despite the government's progressive stance, social awareness of drug addiction in Korea remains a challenge. Recent scandals involving high-profile figures like G-Dragon, Yoo Ah In, and Lee Sun-kyun have highlighted the prevailing perception that individuals associated with drug use are morally wrong. Public reactions often lean towards condemnation rather than understanding addiction as a complex health issue.
At the 소망을 나누는 사람들의 교회 (Church of the People Sharing Hope), every Friday at 7:30 pm and every Sunday at 11 am, Narcotics Anonymous meetings provide a crucial support network for those on the path to recovery. Under the guidance of Priest Yongwon Shin, the church not only unites ex-addicts but also facilitates recovery through prayer sessions. Additionally, the church offers dormitory accommodations, further nurturing a supportive environment for individuals committed to overcoming addiction.
Researcher Nang-Hee Kim from Korean Institute of Criminology and Justice says "Before many addicts were older, so it was hard to treat them because they had been doing it for decades. But these days, the age has come down, starting from the 20s, and they are the most frequently apprehended. If we approach and treat them quickly, there is ample opportunity for recovery."
Experts argue that mental health and addiction should be addressed in tandem. The government's new plans acknowledge this interconnectedness, recognizing that drug addiction is not solely a criminal matter but a mental health concern as well. By establishing additional rehabilitation centers, the government aims to bridge the gap between the criminalization of drug use and the imperative to provide effective mental health support.
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