The characteristics of the Korean juvenile system are discussed, with emphasis on the first step in the disposition of a juvenile case: review by a prosecutor. While over 65 percent of the juvenile cases reviewed by prosecutors are not prosecuted, 34 percent are sent to trial in adult criminal court, and seven percent are sent to juvenile court. Juveniles transferred to juvenile court are detained in the Juvenile Detention and Classification Center for at least two months for aptitude testing and investigation. The following theoretical protective dispositions exist for juveniles: parental or guardian custody, training school, welfare institutions, hospitalization, and probation. Programs of diversion and community treatment include suspended prosecution conditional on guidance, admission to a volunteer guardian system, probation, parole, or admission to a welfare institution. Problems in the Korean juvenile justice system include lack of due process, negligent supervision, and lack of professional treatment. 18 references.