Comparative Analysis of Violent Crime Statistics in Korea by Mental Illness Status (2012–2022): Implications of Deinstitutionalization

Abstract

Objective This study examines violent crime trends in South Korea from 2012 to 2022, comparing offenders with and without mental illness. It evaluates the impact of the 2017 amendments to the Mental Health and Welfare Act, which made involuntary psychiatric hos-pitalization more difficult, on violent crime rates among individuals with mental illness. Methods We analyzed the annual number of violent crime offenders without and with mental illness (psychosis, mental retardation, or other mental disorders) between 2012 and 2022, as provided by the National Police Agency statistics. We compared the total number of offenders between the two groups before and after 2017 when the Mental Health and Welfare Act was implemented. Results Significant differences in crime trends were found between the groups. Serious violent crimes, such as murder and attempted murder, decreased in both groups. However, robbery rates fell sharply among offenders without mental illness but declined minimally among those with mental illness, increasing their proportional involvement. Arson rates rose significantly post-2017 among offenders with mental illness. While assault and battery decreased in offenders without mental illness, they slightly increased in those with mental illness. Crimes such as threats, vandalism, and confinement also showed more substantial increases among the mentally ill group. Conclusion Over the past decade, the number and proportion of violent crimes committed by individuals with mental illness have increased relative to those without, suggesting potential unintended consequences of deinstitutionalization. This highlights the need for comprehensive mental health strategies, including more substantial community-based support.