Nationwide Simultaneous Protection Operation
Over the 48 hours of August 13–14, 2025, the National Police Agency conducted a nationwide "Special Operation to Protect Underage Victims." In the operation, in which police from all 47 prefectures participated, intensive searches and victim protection were carried out concerning cases of contact with, and sexual exploitation of, minors via social media. More than 50 underage victims were taken into protection, and more than 100 perpetrators and brokers involved were arrested or referred to prosecutors.
The Situation of the Protected Minors
Many of the more than 50 minors taken into protection had left home due to family problems or economic hardship and had fallen into a situation of relying on adults they met through social media. All of them had been subjected to sexual demands by multiple adults, and there were several accounts of having "no awareness of being a victim."
Preventing Repeat Victimization and the Support System
After protection, a continuous support system was put in place through cooperation among child guidance centers, NPOs, and lawyers. Rather than mere "protection and return," a comprehensive approach was implemented, extending to fundamental improvements in the home environment and support for becoming self-reliant.
This article is compiled from publicly available information.