New multilingual safety guide aims to protect foreign students in Korea

SOS guide on sexual harassment and violence released for international students / Courtesy of Ministry of Education

A new government guide to help international students navigate and respond to sexual harassment and violence is being rolled out across Korea, as officials confront rising foreign enrollment and persistent gaps in victim support.

The Ministry of Education said Wednesday it had developed and distributed a “Sexual Harassment and Sexual Violence SOS Guide” for international students at universities nationwide, aimed at helping them prevent incidents and respond effectively, particularly when language and cultural barriers complicate matters.

The initiative comes as the number of foreign students in Korea has risen sharply in recent years, from 153,000 in 2020 to 209,000 in 2024 and 253,000 in 2025, according to government data. Officials said that while the increase reflects Korea’s growing appeal as a study destination, it has also exposed vulnerabilities, including cases in which students struggle to seek help after experiencing sexual misconduct.

The guide outlines key concepts and common types of sexual harassment and violence, offering step-by-step responses for different scenarios. It also explains how friends or acquaintances can assist victims and provides practical instructions on how to request help from relevant authorities and support centers.

To improve accessibility, the guide has been produced in seven languages — Korean, English, Chinese, Vietnamese, Mongolian, Uzbek and Nepali — and is accompanied by a leaflet designed for easy reference. The materials use case-based explanations, including sections that clarify common misconceptions, provide question-and-answer guidance and highlight inappropriate responses to victims.

The ministry said it has distributed the guide to university human rights centers and organizations supporting foreign students across the country. The materials are also available on the ministry’s website, allowing broader public access.

A senior education policy official said the guide is intended to help foreign students continue their studies and daily lives in a safer environment. “We expect this guide will support foreign students in maintaining safe academic and living conditions,” he said. “The ministry will continue to strengthen prevention and support systems to ensure a safe educational environment for foreign students in Korea.”

This article was published with the assistance of generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.