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Attorney specializing in child abuse, what is emotional abuse?

Hello, attorney specializing in child abuse. I am a divorced single mother raising a kindergartener. I was reported for child abuse by a kindergarten teacher. However, I have never once committed any violence. However, there was one time when my child would not listen, so I stripped the child and put the child outside, and it seems that this was what was reported.. Is emotional abuse also child abuse? What is emotional abuse?

Attorney specializing in child abuse

Answer

Published: 2025-10-20

Author : DongIl PARK

Hello. This is an attorney at Daeryun Law LLC who specializes in child abuse cases.

The emotional abuse you asked about is included within child abuse.

Child abuse includes not only physical violence but also various forms such as emotional abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect.

In particular, emotional abuse refers to any act by an adult, including a guardian, that inflicts verbal insults, emotional threats, confinement or restraint, or any other conduct that causes mental or psychological suffering to a child.

Simply put, it can be regarded as verbal, mental, and psychological abuse.

Even a single or minor act toward a child may be judged as emotional abuse once a report is filed.

If a report of emotional abuse is filed, one may be subject to imprisonment for up to five years or a fine of up to 50 million won under the Child Welfare Act.

Therefore, if you are involved in a child abuse case, it is very important to consult promptly with an attorney experienced in child abuse cases and to prepare a response suited to the specific circumstances.

Because the initial response can significantly affect the future legal outcome, we recommend consulting an attorney specializing in child abuse cases as early as possible.