According to the view that emphasizes ‘treatment after punishment’ in relation to drug crimes, the need to increase undercover investigations for illegal online transactions focusing on teenagers, and providing treatment in return for punishment is emphasized.652) Unlike other violent crimes, people smuggling, selling, and administering drugs are all accomplices, so voluntary reporting is extremely rare. On the other hand, in the case of first offenders, the rate of being sentenced to probation is high; however, the recidivism rate of all drug offenders in 2021 was 36.6%, which is double that of other crimes. Therefore, a plan to ensure the deterrent effect of drug crimes is necessary, and to expand the manpower of the investigation departments and reinforce the sentencing standards. From this view, even if education and treatment are provided together, there is a great need to strengthen punishment, especially for drug distributors and sellers. In the opinions submitted to the 2020 Sentencing Committee, the Ministry of Justice and the Prosecutors' Office suggested that the sentencing standards for drug offenders need to be raised.653) On the other hand, others assert that, in Korea, it is necessary to emphasize the policy for treatment and prevention as the legal system related to drug addiction is not effectively operated.654) This view emphasizes the need for education and information to the public and medical personnel, and investment in related infrastructure. Some of the issues pointed out are: drug prevention education is not systematically operated because it does not have a high priority among various compulsory education; there is a tendency for medical personnel to easily prescribe appetite suppressants, so-called ‘diet pills,’ sleeping pills, or sedatives to patients; and prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation systems are not effectively operated, where only 21 hospitals nationwide are designated as specialized drug addiction treatment hospitals, and of these hospitals, only 8 facilities had any experience treating drug addicts. 652) Korea Economy, How to deal with teenagers’ use of drugs? Punishment first or prevention first, Oct. 16, 2022 653) Donga Ilbo, 1 out of 2 drug offenders are sentenced to probation, Oct. 11, 2022. 654) Kim, Young-ho, Legislative discussions on the importance of drug addiction prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation, and response strategies, and support for education to combat narcotics, Sep. 30, 2022 264