Providing 10 Million Won Support for Children Living in Basements and Rooftop Rooms

Support for Moving and Housing Environment Improvement by Seoul City

The Seoul Metropolitan Government will provide up to 10 million KRW to support youths under 24 years old and households with children and adolescents living in semi-basement and rooftop rooms. The purpose is to improve living conditions by supporting the costs of moving to above-ground housing.

On the 24th, the city announced that it will carry out the "Climate Crisis Vulnerable Children Future Support Project," which provides deposits, moving expenses, and housing environment improvement costs to children in housing-vulnerable groups. This project targets low-income households with middle income below 120% who are registered residents of Seoul, are under 24 years old, live with children and adolescents, and reside in (semi-)basements or rooftops, or require housing environment improvements.

Before construction at a household supported by Seoul City's 'Climate Crisis Vulnerable Children Future Support Project'. Photo by Seoul City

After construction at a household supported by Seoul City's 'Climate Crisis Vulnerable Children Future Support Project.' Provided by Seoul City

In addition to the moving deposit, up to 10 million KRW will be provided covering moving expenses of 1 million KRW, housing improvement costs such as wallpapering and boiler installation, and environmental support costs for purchasing appliances like air conditioners and washing machines.

Moving expenses support has increased from 800,000 KRW last year to 1 million KRW this year. The housing improvement category now includes additional items such as flood barriers, rooftop waterproofing, and security window installation for rooftop residences. Essential home appliances under environmental support have been significantly expanded to include refrigerators and washing machines.

Applications for support can be made through local community service centers, district offices, and social welfare centers in the area of residence. Applications will be accepted until June this year, but may close early or be extended depending on budget conditions and the number of selected applicants.

Kim Deok-hwan, Director of the Seoul Care Welfare Division, said, "The difficulties faced by children and adolescents living in basements or rooftops during heatwaves and cold waves are inevitably greater," adding, "We will strive to provide a safe and healthy home for children and adolescents living in vulnerable housing environments."