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U.S. forces increase patrols of Korean red-light districts
November 8, 2004
The U.S. military said Monday it has stepped up patrols to prevent its
personnel from visiting illegal prostitute districts in their host country.
The reinforced patrols come after the South Korean police began enforcing a
tougher anti-prostitution law from September, which has so far led to the
arrests of 5,000 people, including foreign citizens.
"U.S. military police have patrolling various off-limit areas with South Korean
police since a long ago," said Kim Yong-kyu, a spokesman at the U.S. military
command in Seoul. "The courtesy patrol was recently leveled up."
Kim referred to a report by an American military newspaper that the U.S. forces
in South Korea are undertaking various measures to combat sex trade and human
trafficking.
The Stars & Stripes quoted Gen. Leon J. LaPorte, chief of the U.S. forces
in South Korea, as saying his military has provided "multi-faceted" educational
programs, late night sports leagues, more movies and increased chapel services.
LaPorte said about 400 U.S. soldiers in South Korea have been arrested and
punished this year for engaging the services of prostitutes, and the U.S.
military has designated over 800 areas as off-limits for its soldiers.
South Korea's new anti-prostitution law allows for the tougher punishment of
violators. Convicted brothel owners face a maximum prison term of 10 years or a
fine of up to 100 million won (US$87,000), much heavier than before, while
prosecuted clientele are also subject to heavier fines and even jail terms.
The police crackdown is backed by women's rights groups but has drawn angry
protests from sex workers and brothel owners who say their livelihood is now
under threat. Several female sex workers have attempted suicide in protest.
About 34,000 U.S. troops are stationed in South Korea to deter possible
aggression from North Korea, Kazinform refers to Yonhap source.
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