"Support Provided Even on Suspicion"... Gwangju Buk-gu Launches Proactive Child Abuse Assistance

by Min Hyunki

Published 27 Jan.2026 16:15(KST)

Selected for Ministry of Health and Welfare Project for Three Consecutive Years

Gwangju Buk-gu Office building.

Gwangju Buk-gu is taking proactive measures to intervene from the early stages of suspected child abuse, providing support for both affected children and families at risk.

According to Gwangju Buk-gu on January 27, the district has been selected for the third consecutive year as a local government to carry out the 'Early Support Project for Child Abuse Prevention,' organized by the Ministry of Health and Welfare. This achievement is unique among all districts in the Gwangju area.

The purpose of this project is to quickly intervene even before a formal determination of abuse is made after a report is received, thereby filling gaps in the current response system and creating an environment where children can grow up safely.

This year, Buk-gu will focus on three key services: ▲ rapid support ▲ parenting coaching ▲ monitoring of parenting situations.

First, through the 'rapid support service,' the district will immediately provide medical expenses and emergency protection supplies to children suspected of being abused, even before abuse is officially confirmed, thereby addressing welfare blind spots.

In addition, 'parenting coaching' will be offered to families where conflicts between parents and adolescent children may escalate into abuse. Programs to improve communication, including professional counseling and psychological therapy, will help restore family relationships.

To prevent neglect due to financial hardship, 'monitoring of parenting situations' will also be conducted. Designated staff will visit at-risk families as needed to check on the children's condition and provide essential daily necessities.

Last year, Buk-gu identified and supported a total of 44 households and 105 children suspected of being at risk, as well as high-risk families, through this project.

Moon In, Mayor of Buk-gu, stated, "We will establish a comprehensive response system to prevent and block child abuse at an early stage," adding, "We will continue to do our utmost to make Buk-gu a place where children can grow up healthy and happy."