Highlights of the Civil Code

It codifies a separate volume on personality rights. This covers stipulations on a civil subject’s rights to his or her life, body, health, name, portrait, reputation and privacy, among others.

It institutes a 30-day cooling-off period aimed at deterring impulsive divorces. The divorce-by-agreement couples must wait 30 days in order to rethink their decision. They can withdraw their divorce application within the 30 days. After the waiting period, those who still want to divorce will receive their official documents.

Victims sexually abused when they were minors will be legally allowed to sue the perpetrators after they turn 18. The Civil Code bans sexual harassment, and clarifies the responsibilities of entities such as schools, businesses and government organs in fighting the act.

Throwing or releasing objects from tall buildings is illegal. If an object harms an individual and the perpetrator cannot be identified, all residents of the building must chip in to pay compensation, unless they can prove they were away from the premises at the time of the incident.

People who help others will not be held legally responsible even if their help, such as offering a free ride, causes harm to the victim.

Passengers must adhere to the information included on their transportation tickets—seat numbers and times, as well as train numbers.

It lists human genes and embryos as fundamental rights that deserve protection. It dictates that all medical and scientific research related to human genes and embryos must follow strict rules, laws and regulations.

It defines the right of habitation for the first time, dismantling barriers for property owners in urban residential communities to protect their legitimate rights and interests, and answering the public’s rising call for a stable living environment.