The decision was made in light of a priest at the Catholic Diocese of Suwon, only identified by his surname Han, who was accused of attempting to rape a female worker multiple times during his stay in South Sudan in 2011. He admitted to most of the charges and was suspended from his duties, according to the Suwon diocese.

CBCK said it has also decided to open dedicated channels within dioceses where victims can report sexual wrongdoing.

In late February, Archbishop Hyginus Kim Hee-joong, head of the CBCK, held a press conference in Seoul to apologize to the victims, their families and those "who have been let down and enraged by the priesthood."

"This sex scandal in the priesthood, which should uphold the noble value of celibacy and serve as a moral and religious compass, is disappointing and embarrassing," he said. (Yonhap)