Korea: Change military culture, urges Commission
Bullying and a harsh disciplinary culture within the Republic of Korea Marine Corps were critical factors behind a tragic shooting incident, says the Commission.
Photo: S.Korea KDN, Flickr Creative Commons
Bullying, abuse and a harsh disciplinary culture within the Republic of Korea Marine Corps were critical factors behind a tragic shooting incident involving marines earlier this year, according to the National Human Rights Commission of Korea (NHRCK).
The NHRCK conducted a preliminary investigation into the shooting incident on 7 April 2011 by a 19 year old marine corporal which left four marines dead and wounded a fifth.
It also initiated an investigation to examine whether the incident may be connected with human rights violations within the Marine Corps, such as poor management of marines and abusive acts.
The NHRCK interviewed the corporal, his colleagues and superiors and inspected relevant reports and documents.
The investigation found that physical and verbal abuse was widespread within the Marine Corps and that bullying and poor management of corporals had significantly contributed to human rights abuses.
In response, the NHRCK has made a range of legislative and institutional recommendations to build a culture of respect for human rights within the military.
These include establishing a code of conduct for the armed forces; setting up an external experts committee and a department within the Marine Corps for the promotion and protection of human rights; conducting comprehensive human rights education and training; and managing a system effectively for soldiers requiring special attention.
It also recommended that action be taken against those responsible for bullying and physical abuse, along with their superiors.
Date: 4 October 2011
