The Seoul city government announced on 14th that it will provide monthly housing assistance of 200,000 won to youth preparing for independence. Youth preparing for independence refers to those who received care in child welfare facilities such as orphanages or foster homes and are getting ready to live independently after their protection ends at age 18. The city will invest 18.1 billion won for these individuals this year.
As of the end of last year, there are more than 1,400 youth preparing for independence in Seoul. The city supports housing costs to prevent these youth from experiencing housing insecurity due to high rent. When they sign real estate contracts, a reassurance manager will accompany them. Additionally, the city plans to provide software developer training courses for youth preparing for independence and to link them to employment.
According to the Child Welfare Act, youth preparing for independence can receive government or local government support for up to five years after leaving the facility. They then transition to independent youth. The city has established an SOS fund of over 600 million won for independent youth. They will be supported in urgent cases such as tuition fees or medical expenses. A city official noted, 'Compared to youth preparing for independence, independent youth do not receive active institutional support, so a separate fund was created through public-private cooperation.'
The city provides monthly support of 300,000 won for arts and physical education expenses to children in protective facilities. If a child exhibits symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), they will be able to receive treatment at the Child Healing Center starting in July.