South Korea is responding to rising school violence and cyberbullying by expanding its Youth Pol-Net platform and youth police schools. The Ministry of Education’s 2025 survey found school violence at its highest in a decade, with cyberbullying and group ostracism increasing. The Youth Pol-Net platform, launched by the National Police Agency, serves as a comprehensive resource for prevention, reporting, and education. It was integrated with the national youth police school system in December 2023, marking a significant policy shift toward proactive and accessible support.
The policy impacts students, parents, educators, and local communities across South Korea. Over 1,100 School Police Officers (SPOs) now support schools, offering programs such as simulated crime prevention, digital safety education, and emotional learning. The platform provides access to the 117 School Violence Hotline, youth guidance programs, and standard educational materials. Even students in remote or multicultural areas can participate, with resources available in multiple languages and tailored content for different age groups.
Since its 2012 inception with 193 SPOs, the program has grown to cover an average of 10.6 schools per officer, with 57 youth police schools operating nationwide. In April 2024, Youth Pol-Net began allowing users to search for their local SPO and access new multilingual and age-specific materials. The system’s evolution reflects the need for both digital and in-person solutions, especially as generative AI drives new forms of cyberbullying. The platform also supports at-risk youth, including those assigned special education by disciplinary committees.
Frequently asked questions include how to report school violence and who can access the programs. Anyone can report incidents 24/7 via the 117 hotline, text, or online, and both individuals and groups can join youth police school programs. The SPOs’ presence signals both protection and deterrence, and the platform is designed to be inclusive, with no age restrictions for participation. The initiative continues to adapt to changing digital risks and the needs of diverse communities.
Metaqsol opinion: The integration of Youth Pol-Net with youth police schools and the expansion of SPO roles reflect a robust, multi-layered approach to school violence prevention in South Korea. The policy’s emphasis on both digital and hands-on education, as well as its accessibility for remote and multicultural communities, addresses the evolving nature of youth risks, especially in the digital age. The 24/7 reporting and guidance systems, along with targeted programs for at-risk youth, are grounded in current data and needs. This initiative is well-positioned to improve safety and awareness across the country.