[6.3 Election] Kim Daejung: "Special Education Is a Right, Not Welfare"... Commitment to Full Independence

Kim Daejung, the preliminary candidate for superintendent of the integrated Jeonnam and Gwangju Metropolitan City, announced key pledges related to special education on April 20, to mark Disability Day. He put forward the firm principle that “Education is a right, not a welfare benefit.”

These pledges focus on “customized growth and realization of independence for students with disabilities.” The emphasis is on transitioning toward “special education that delivers different outcomes”-not simply support at school, but taking responsibility through to post-graduation independence and social participation.

Kim Daejung, preliminary candidate for Superintendent of Jeonnam-Gwangju Integrated Special City Education Office, announced key pledges related to special education in observance of "Day of Persons with Disabilities." Photo by Kim Daejung Election Office

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First, Kim identified the expansion of special education infrastructure and improved accessibility as his top priorities. To this end, he pledged to establish an “AI-based Edutech Special Education Center” in the Jeonnam and Gwangju region, and actively respond to educational demand by building new and additional special schools and classes. He also promised to significantly increase the number of specialized professionals in special education and operate “Care Centers for Students with Disabilities” during vacation periods to address gaps in care.

A comprehensive, individualized support system tailored to the unique characteristics and developmental levels of students with disabilities will also be established. In addition to enhancing individualized education plans, Kim plans to introduce an integrated support system covering emotional and behavioral development. Furthermore, he will promote both the “Jangmigum (Future Growth Dream Realization for Students with Disabilities) Project,” which fosters students’ potential and career competencies, and global special education programs.

Kim will also focus on building a solid foundation for real independence by linking career, employment, and social participation. He plans to establish a “one-stop integrated career and employment support system” and collaborate with local companies and public institutions to expand job experience opportunities and mandatory employment. Additionally, he aims to strengthen programs for independent living and social adaptation to support students’ lives after graduation.

Kim stated, “Education is a right, not a welfare benefit, and special education is a fundamental right that the state must guarantee.” He added, “I will build a robust education system that takes full responsibility for the career, employment, and independence of students with disabilities, so they can confidently live as members of their local communities beyond the school environment.”

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