The Supreme Court ruled Thursday that protesters who were forced to take off their underwear by police officers during an investigation deserve compensation from the government.

The court confirmed the original verdict that came down partially in favor of the plaintiffs and ordered the government to pay 1.5 million won ($1,379) to each party.

Out of concerns about mad cow disease, four female protesters took part in a candlelight vigil in 2008 against the Korean government’s plan to resume U.S. beef imports. They were arrested on charges of violating laws concerning public rallies. During the investigation, police officers told the protesters to unhook their bras in accordance with its policy.

“We felt humiliated while being investigated without wearing a bra,” the plaintiffs said.

The protesters including a woman surnamed Kim had claimed 6 million won ($5,500) each from the government.



By Park Han-na
(hnpark@heraldcorp.com)