In South Korea, every year many children and adolescents are cared for in residential facilities (childcare institutions, group homes, etc., government-run facilities that temporarily house youth). When they turn 18, their legal protection ends. After leaving care, these youths must enter society independently and prepare for self-reliance.   A few years ago, the system was revised, allowing those who wish to stay in care until the age of 24. Nonetheless, entering society without supportive adults nearby remains a significant challenge.   These individuals are referred to as transitioning youth leaving care.    The government released the 2024 guidebook to support private initiatives for transitioning youth. Photo shows the cover. (Source: Ministry of Health and Welfare, Korea Institute of Child Rights and Policy) Typical Youth Protection and Preparation   Most South Korean youths live with their parents and receive parental care. Even after...

A little break at a café during our trip with my husband. The elegant interior, delicious coffee, and desserts instantly won me over — I thought, “I have to come back here!” Later, I found out the place is run by a local creator, and I was truly impressed.(Photo by Milly)  A Story That Began with Personal Experience   About ten years ago, I worked with a colleague whose personality and work style matched mine so well that we stayed close friends even after leaving the job. We would often meet up, share meals, and talk about everyday life. But over time, our contact became less frequent, and eventually, I heard that this friend had moved back to their hometown.   Not long ago, I happened to reconnect with them. They told me: “I’m now working as a Local Creator in my hometown.”   They were deeply engaged in projects such as revitalizing the local economy, promoting the region, and addressing population decline. What Is a Local Creator?   The term...

One of the main reasons the social economy has grown so rapidly in South Korea is because it was driven by government initiatives. Social economy enterprises pursue values while also competing in the general market economy. Without government support, rapid growth is difficult. Recognizing this, the Korean government has continued to provide various forms of support to ensure that the social economy can operate and grow sustainably.   Ironically, however, South Korea still does not have a Framework Act on the Social Economy.   In South Korea, discussions on enacting a Basic Law for the Social Economy have been ongoing for years.(Photo by Milly)  What Is Included in the Framework Act on the Social Economy?   The Framework Act on the Social Economy includes essential legal foundations aimed at promoting the social economy. The currently proposed bills include key provisions such as: 👉 Establishing a basic development plan for the social economy 👉Conductin...