[The Editors' Verdict] Is There No Way to Become a Mentor for "Eighteen Adults"?

Young Adults Preparing for Independence with No Support Amid Prejudice and Loneliness
Life Motivation Crushed by Psychological and Emotional Struggles
Adults Wanting to Become Guardians but Unaware of How

Last summer, two young adults preparing for independence in their teens made consecutive extreme choices. Many people were saddened, including acquaintances around them. These young adults preparing for independence are those who have left child care facilities or group homes.

Children without parents or those placed in care facilities due to circumstances must leave these places when they turn 18, regardless of their wishes.

These young adults receive independence preparation funds ranging from 5 million to 15 million KRW. Since June last year, they have been allowed to stay in the facilities until the age of 24. However, many feel burdened by staying longer and choose not to apply.

Young adults without money, background, or adults who believe in and support them suffer hardships in childhood and face social prejudice and discrimination without a place to lean on as they grow up. Phrases like "They didn't receive family education" or "They lack perseverance because they are orphans" are sometimes said to their faces or conveyed through piercing gazes. Psychological and emotional difficulties often break their will to live moment by moment.

Unfortunately, social interest in young adults preparing for independence only increased after last year's incidents. Voices calling for reviewing and strengthening support measures for these young adults grew louder, and the government and local governments increased support.

The independence allowance, received for five years, increased by 50,000 KRW to 400,000 KRW per month. The settlement funds provided by local governments also increased. With strong will and effort from the young adults themselves, these supports can barely help them escape the brink of poverty.

As much as economic support or sponsorship, wisdom for living in the world is also necessary, but it is unclear where they can learn this. They are thirsty for consideration that can embrace psychological and emotional difficulties, but there is nowhere to rely on.

An acquaintance who had been searching newspaper articles and broadcasts for weeks calmed their overwhelmed heart and began to find a way to become a mentor.

Although they did not have a specialized field or separate training, they thought they could share wisdom for living in the world and be a good psychological supporter due to their diverse experiences and career. Another acquaintance with experience as an English instructor also offered to help.

They also called the city hall and district office. They contacted a foundation running the "Eighteen Adults Campaign," but only economic sponsorship was offered, and no method was found.

"Even if there are many support systems, they are useless if the person concerned does not know about the system itself." "Because the general life satisfaction is low, delicate consideration that can embrace psychological and emotional difficulties is necessary." "The government needs to guarantee and connect private sponsors to create a place where young adults preparing for independence can rely on society."

Experts say there are many important things besides economic sponsorship and propose solutions, but finding ways to become mentors or private guardians was reportedly difficult.

Every year, about 2,500 young adults preparing for independence enter society. The reality is that one public official manages 120 of them. Is there really no way to become a mentor?

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