The “Goo Hara Act” has crossed the legislative threshold in South Korea, marking a significant moment in the reform of inheritance rights

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This law, centered around disqualifying domestic abusers from their right to inheritance, was propelled by the tragic story of the late Goo Hara. The passage of the Goo Hara Act transcends mere legal amendment; it has spurred a societal shift in the perception of domestic abuse and strengthened legal measures against it.

Following the shocking death of Goo Hara in 2019, her brother, Goo HoIn, petitioned for the creation of this law in response to their estranged mother’s demand for half of Goo Hara’s inheritance. This led to a comprehensive review of the inheritance system, culminating in the birth of the “Goo Hara Act”. The legislation provides a basis for disqualifying individuals from inheritance if they have neglected their duty of care or committed serious crimes against family members.

A pivotal role in the act’s passage was played by a Constitutional Court ruling last month, which found the current reserved portion system—mandating a certain portion of the estate be inherited by all siblings—to be unconstitutional. This highlighted the need for reform in the inheritance system.

Public support has also been noteworthy. In April 2020, a national petition in support of the “Goo Hara Act” garnered over 100,000 signatures, strongly calling for an overhaul of the inheritance system. This public consensus significantly accelerated the legislative process.

The “Goo Hara Act” is scheduled to pass through the National Assembly’s Legal Committee and plenary session on the 28th, with implementation expected from January 2026. The enforcement of this law will introduce a new paradigm in inheritance rights and offer a ray of hope to those suffering from domestic violence within the family.

The passage of the Goo Hara Act symbolizes progressive change within Korean society and represents a significant milestone in providing strength to those left vulnerable by legal loopholes. The execution of this law and its positive effects on society as a whole are eagerly anticipated.