S. Korea needs new standard on human rights to reflect changing times: Moon

SEOUL, Nov. 25 (Yonhap) -- President Moon Jae-in said Thursday that South Korea needs a new standard on human rights to reflect changing times, in remarks seen as supporting the enactment of an anti-discrimination law.

"Twenty years ago, we didn't enact a basic law on human rights or prevention of discrimination," Moon said in his remarks at the 20th founding anniversary of the National Human Rights Commission of Korea, a state-run human rights watchdog.

"We must focus on gathering our capabilities to make a new human rights standard in light of the changing times," Moon said.

Bills on anti-discrimination have been submitted to the National Assembly since 2007, but they have never been passed due to opposition from conservative lawmakers and some religious groups.

Provisions outlawing discrimination against sexual minorities were particularly contentious. In South Korea, homosexuality is not illegal. However, many sexual minorities fear coming out because of fears of discrimination.

Many human rights advocates, including Amnesty International, have called for South Korea to enact an anti-discrimination law to protect sexual minorities from discrimination.

International laws ban discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity or sexual characteristics.

Moon also urged the commission to make more efforts to build a society where everyone, particularly vulnerable people, can enjoy equal human rights.

Discrimination and hatred are dividing the society these days, Moon said, adding the commission must take the lead in preparing measures to address these issues.

"I pledge that the commission's independence in its undertakings will continue to be thoroughly guaranteed," Moon said.

kdh@yna.co.kr
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