Taiwan Go Tutor Receives 22-Year Sentence for Child Molestation

A New Taipei Court Hands Down Harsh Sentence in Child Abuse Case

Taipei, Taiwan - A Go tutor in Taiwan has been sentenced to 22 years in prison for the molestation of 12 children. The New Taipei District Court announced the verdict on Wednesday, highlighting the severity of the crimes committed.

The defendant, identified as Lee (李), was found guilty of multiple counts of child molestation. The incidents, totaling up to 64 instances, involved both boys and girls. The victims, according to court records, ranged in age, with the youngest being only six years old.

The court determined that Lee violated the Criminal Code by molesting minors under the age of 14. Furthermore, he was also found to have contravened the Sexual Harassment Prevention Act. The investigation revealed an even more disturbing aspect of the case: Lee filmed the children during the acts of abuse, thereby also violating the Child and Youth Sexual Exploitation Prevention Act.

The case came to light on September 1, 2024, when concerned parents reported Lee's misconduct. Lee had been operating an unlicensed Go classroom from his home, where he had secretly installed cameras. Authorities swiftly responded, inspecting the premises the following day. They seized crucial video evidence, which led to the identification of the 12 victims.

Lee was immediately taken into custody. The New Taipei District Court extended his detention for an additional two months in January before commencing the trial. The New Taipei City Education Department also took action, fining Lee NT$250,000 (US$7,560) in September 2024 and ordering the immediate closure of his "classroom." This was due to his failure to obtain the required permits to operate a short-term tutoring center.

Additionally, Lee is permanently banned from working in any tutoring center. This sentence reflects Taiwan's commitment to protecting children and ensuring the safety of its youth.