When people talk about social economy organizations or social innovation enterprises in South Korea, attention is usually focused on founders, CEOs, or frontline practitioners. Far less visible, however, are those who quietly make these organizations function on a daily basis: middle managers.   In Korea’s social and solidarity economy (SSE) and social innovation sector, middle managers play a critical role in sustaining organizations. This article explores what middle managers actually do in the Korean context — and why their role matters more than we often acknowledge.   In South Korea, middle managers typically hold titles such as team leader, section chief, or department head. I worked in the role of a team leader.(Photo by Milly)   Structural Characteristics of Korea’s SSE and Social Innovation Organizations   I previously worked at a media organization that held preliminary social enterprise certification. In that organization, I served ...

  In South Korea, the issue of isolated youth has been receiving increasing attention. According to the “2024 Survey on the Lives of Youth” conducted by the government last year, the proportion of isolated or withdrawn youth is 5.2%. These young people rarely go out or have very limited social interactions, which can be seen not just as an individual problem but as a social and structural issue.   Why We Should Care About Isolated Youth   Isolated youth live cut off from society, which can lead to feelings of depression and helplessness and intensify social isolation. Their lack of social participation also has broader implications, potentially resulting in losses for communities and the nation as a whole.   The government is also implementing various programs to address the issue of socially isolated and withdrawn youth. (Source: Screenshot from the Ministry of Health and Welfare website) How the Social Economy and Social Innovation Connect to Isolated Y...

  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...