National Human Rights Commission of the Republic of Korea
theirs is a crime of negligence, and the possibility of a separation of accomplices.
In this regard, on November 25, 2014, the Commission submitted to the Minister of
Justice the following five recommendations: i) to construct new buildings where the ward
for prisoners on trial can be separated from that for convicted prisoners; ii) to repair
facilities for better hygiene and make available improvements such as installing
air-conditioning, heating, and dehumidifying apparatuses even prior to the completion
of new construction; iii) to provide frequent and regular education for prison officers
to treat prisoners properly according to their status in regards to whether they are on
trial or already convicted; iv) to acquire adequate medical staff to prepare for emergency
situations and ensure inmates are able to take medicine(s) on time without delay due
to prolonged examination of prescription drugs from outside medical institutions; and
v) to operate mental health care programs for prisoners and prison officers.
K. Policy Recommendation on Child Care Facilities after On-site
Investigation
With the aim of preventing the human rights violations of children and improving
their rights and treatment in care facilities, the Commission visited five child care
facilities with more than 50 child residents in Seoul and Gyeonggi Province from 15
to 24 July, 2014.
The 2014 investigation was particularly focused on the issues of the dietary life
of children, punishment and remedial measures, consultation with relevant authorities
prior to admission, the protection of children in need of psychological therapy,
programs to support the economic independence of children after leaving the facility,
and whether children’s opinions are reflected and their engagement is guaranteed
in the decision-making process.
Chapter 1. Improvement of Laws, Regulations, Institutions, Policies and Practices ▪▪▪ 39