• Asian Journal for Public Opinion Research
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• v.7 no.2
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• pp.75-93
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• 2019

Background: Since 2010, Korea has maintained a DNA database of those convicted of or awaiting trial for certain crimes. There have been proposals to expand the list of crimes included in this database, or conversely, omit certain crimes if they are committed during protests. An understanding of the feelings of the public as we consider the ethical, legal, and social aspects of a DNA database and as revisions to laws are made is required. Methodology: Questions related to the DNA database were included in the nationally representative Korean Academic Multimode Open Survey (KAMOS) panel (June-August 2016). Results: Of 2,000 randomly selected panel members, 1,013 respondents participated in this survey, including 89.2% who supported the existence of a criminal DNA database. The current system of storing DNA profiles until a suspect's acquittal or a convict's death was supported by 79.5% of respondents. In addition, 70.8% of respondents agreed with the expansion of crime categories included in the criminal database. Many (93.4%) respondents favored genetic testing and data storage to determine the identity and cause of death for people who die of unnatural causes. Some differences in attitude related to social class were noted, with those who self-identified as members of the upper class more likely to support the database and its expansion to include additional crimes than those who self-identified as middle or lower class. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that Koreans generally support the criminal DNA database.

• Journal of Science and Technology Studies
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• v.3 no.2 s.6
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• pp.83-104
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• 2003

The use of DNA in identification is growing. The criminal DNA databases are in operation in some countries including the UK, Austria, Germany, and US. The militaries and law enforcement agencies in these countries have used the DNA profile. In Korea, DNA identification has been used in determining paternity and in criminal cases since the middle 1990's, and in recent years law enforcement agencies are promoting a national DNA database for identification. The DNA database threatens our civil liberties because of its potential to be used as an instrument of surveillance. Expanding the database puts increasing numbers of people on a 'list of suspects'. Nevertheless, there is little social concern about using DNA database for identification. This paper reviews social issues related to the establishment of DNA database and investigates the features of DNA profile and DNA Database establishment project promoted law enforcement agencies.