Kim Dong-yeon: "There Will Be No Disadvantages for Taking Maternity Leave"

[Asia Economy (Suwon) = Reporter Lee Young-gyu] Kim Dong-yeon, Governor of Gyeonggi Province, promised that Gyeonggi Province will take the lead, saying that changes in perception are also necessary for population issues such as low birth rates.

Governor Kim said on Facebook on the 14th, "The 11th was World Population Day, and after participating in the event at that time, I participated in the Gyeonggi Province population policy discussion today," emphasizing, "Population issues are not something to be left to a specific department, but will be addressed as a matter concerning the entire provincial government."

He added, "I will strive to create a Gyeonggi Province where more opportunities and more equitable opportunities are provided so that there is no anxiety about the future," and "As important as these efforts, I believe, is a 'change in perception' or a 'new culture.'"

In particular, he said, "These days, whenever I have time, I visit and meet with provincial government employees working in various offices," adding, "Each time, I try to give special encouragement to employees who are about to go on maternity leave. I am also looking into ways to ensure that employees returning from maternity leave do not suffer disadvantages, and even receive benefits within the bounds of regulations."

He further stated, "A change in perception is needed not only in the workplace but also within the family," emphasizing again, "At the Population Day event, I also met participants of the 'Gyeonggi Dads Hi!' program, a group of fathers involved in childcare, but if the culture where childcare burdens fall mainly on women remains unchanged, no policy will be effective."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.