Uijeongbu-si Implements Rapid Protection and Various Prevention Activities for Abused Children

Uijeongbu City, Gyeonggi Province (Mayor Kim Dong-geun) announced on the 4th that it is focusing on creating a "child-friendly city" through prompt protection of abused children and various child abuse prevention activities.

Uijeongbu City is focusing on creating a "child-friendly city" through prompt protection of abused children and various child abuse prevention activities. Photo shows a child abuse prevention commemorative event. Provided by Uijeongbu City

To strengthen the child abuse response system, the city has assigned seven dedicated child abuse officers since July 2021, maintaining a 24/7 work system throughout the year.

This year, to provide even more thorough child protection, two Moonlight Children's Hospitals (hospitals capable of treating mild pediatric patients during weekday nights and holidays) have been additionally designated as dedicated medical institutions for child abuse, supporting the prompt treatment of abused children.

Additionally, activities to raise social awareness about child abuse are noteworthy. The city, for the first time nationwide, produced a workbook containing information on child abuse response, from definitions to case interventions, and conducted a "Child Abuse Mock Exam," in which 629 students and parents in the jurisdiction participated, enhancing understanding of child abuse.

During this year’s Child Abuse Prevention Week (annually from November 19 to 25), moving beyond traditional campaign-centered activities, the city carried out child rights education, commemorative events, street and child-participatory campaigns under three themes: ▲Adding Love with Our Hands ▲Together with Each Other ▲Reading the Heart, thereby raising social interest among all citizens.

In particular, under the theme "Reading the Heart," children read picture books on child abuse prevention, shared their thoughts with each other, and expressed messages they wanted to convey to their guardians through writing or drawing, making it a meaningful time to understand the children’s feelings.

Mayor Kim Dong-geun said, “I deeply thank the related organizations that have worked with Uijeongbu City this year on child abuse response tasks,” and added, “By 2025, we will further strengthen the child protection system and strive to ensure that all children can grow up safely and healthily.”