S.Korea's lack of anti-discrimination laws takes toll on LGBT youth, activists say

FILE PHOTO: A participant takes part in the Korea Queer Culture Festival 2016 in central Seoul, South Korea, June 11, 2016. REUTERS/Kim Hong-Ji/File Photo

SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korea's failure to pass national laws banning discrimination is taking a toll on citizens, particularly LGBT youth, a new report said on Tuesday, as activists see pending legislation as the best chance yet to extend protections.

U.S.-based Human Rights Watch said its research showed the lack of protections had led to a range of discriminatory practices and were exacerbating harassment for young LGBT people.