Court rulings from 2010 to 2026 show how traditional music instructors used their authority over students to commit sexual offenses, according to an analysis reported by The Korea Times. Seven of 11 cases involved underage victims, including four involving children younger than 13. The crimes typically occurred in lesson rooms or classrooms, while one 2021 case involved a pansori teacher who sexually assaulted a 12-year-old student and later tried to kiss the child.
Cases involving adult victims also showed how control over students’ future careers made it difficult for victims to speak out, with some eventually leaving the traditional music community.