Omiseop, Gwangju Seo-gu Council Member, "Support Measures for 'Self-Reliant Youth' Must Be Explored"

Published 17 Nov.2022 10:30(KST)

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Shin Dong-ho] Oh Mi-seop, a member of the Gwangju Metropolitan City Seo-gu Council, recently held a meeting to explore support measures for the healthy future of youth preparing for independence.

The meeting was attended by council members Baek Jong-han, Oh Gwang-rok, Im Seong-hwa, Kim Hyeong-mi, An Hyeong-ju, and Kim Gyun-ho.

Youth preparing for independence refers to young people who were protected in child welfare facilities or foster families but could not return to their original families and whose protection ends after turning 18.

They receive support such as ▲independence allowance (350,000 KRW per month) and independence settlement funds ▲housing support.

Council member Oh Mi-seop said, “The recent series of extreme choices by youth preparing for independence after leaving protective facilities has emerged as a social issue. Starting with today’s meeting, we will reflect the diverse voices of these youth and strive to help them prepare for a healthy future within the community.”

He added, “During the meeting, opinions were raised that a platform for communication and linkage should be established first for practical support, and that customized support across various fields such as economic, social, and psychological support is necessary. We will prepare support ordinances so that youth preparing for independence can establish at least a minimum foundation for independence and enter society, rather than feeling overwhelmed.”