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The South Korean Embassy in Laos has warned Korean nationals in the country not to engage in prostitution, saying related incidents have damaged the nation’s image.

The embassy posted a notice on Sept. 18 stating, “As the number of overseas trips by our citizens increases, cases of prostitution have been reported in the media. We have also received reports of illegal acts by our citizens that cause offense.”

The embassy added, “Engaging in prostitution seriously damages the nation’s image and undermines the trust that Korean communities have built in Laos. Prostitution is subject to criminal punishment under Lao law.”

Under Lao law, both sex workers and those who tolerate or facilitate prostitution can face jail terms ranging from three months to a year. Those who pay for sex are subject to the same penalties. Engaging in sexual activity with anyone under 18 can result in prison terms of up to 15 years.

The warning followed controversy sparked by a post on a Korean online community.

One writer claimed he visited a brothel in Laos and paid 14,000 won ($10) for sex, while another post described a small facility where five to seven girls were sleeping, with prices ranging from 30,000 to 40,000 won. “Most of them looked 12 to 19,” the writer said.

According to a 2022 survey by the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family, 25.8 percent of respondents who admitted to paying for sex in the previous year said they had done so overseas. Less than half (43.3 percent) said they were aware they could face punishment in Korea for engaging in prostitution abroad.


shinjh@heraldcorp.com