Opening of Gyeonggi Central Sunflower Center in Bucheon... One-stop support for emergency and psychological treatment

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Hyesook] The Gyeonggi Central Sunflower Center opened its doors at Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital (Basement 2 of Hyangseol Building) and began operations on the 22nd.

The Sunflower Center is an institution that provides 24/7 one-stop support including counseling, medical care, legal assistance, and investigation for victims of sexual violence, domestic violence, and prostitution through agreements between the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family, city/provincial governments, local police agencies, and hospitals.

Established with joint funding from the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family and Gyeonggi Province, the Gyeonggi Central Sunflower Center is an 'integrated' center offering both emergency and ongoing support. There are a total of 17 integrated centers nationwide, with 3 located in Gyeonggi Province.

The emergency support center within the hospital is separately equipped with an obstetrics and gynecology examination room, counseling room, statement recording room, and stabilization room to provide treatment and comfort for victims. Additionally, a continuous support center is set up near the hospital to provide ongoing psychological evaluation and treatment for victims.

Led by Director Lee Soyoung, a professor of psychiatry at Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital, the center is supported by a team of 15 professionals including five female police officers from the Gyeonggi Southern Police Agency, counselors, nurses, and clinical psychology experts who collaborate to assist victims visiting the Sunflower Center.

Shin Eungjin, director of the Gyeonggi Central Sunflower Center, stated, "Victims in the Bucheon area, who previously had to travel to Ansan or Goyang, can now receive faster and safer support," adding, "We will do our best to support victims of sexual violence."

Jang Deokcheon, mayor of Bucheon, said, "With the opening of the Gyeonggi Central Sunflower Center, we expect a significant enhancement in the speed and professionalism of victim support," and added, "We will actively support the establishment of a close cooperative system with local related organizations to ensure no blind spots occur."

Victims can receive prompt and safe guidance by visiting or calling the Gyeonggi Central Sunflower Center at 032-651-1375 for counseling.