In South Korea, the implementation of a mugshot disclosure law has ignited a national debate, pitting the public’s right to information against concerns for criminal suspects’ privacy and legal rights.

This law, a response to increasing public demand fueled by high-profile criminal cases last year, now allows authorities increased discretion in revealing the identities of criminal suspects. While many view this as a stride toward transparency and justice, some experts have told Korea Pro that the newly implemented law harbors some legal and constitutional concerns.