Utilizing a Human Safety Network of Over 31,000 Members
Taking Action to Identify and Prevent High-Risk Groups
Jeonnam Province is implementing various policies to prevent solitary deaths within the region. Provided by Jeonnam Province
Jeollanam-do is actively working to prevent solitary deaths through community solidarity.
According to statistics from the Ministry of Health and Welfare's survey on solitary deaths, the number of solitary death cases in Jeollanam-do in 2023 was 120, accounting for 3.2% of the nationwide total (3,661).
By age group, those in their 50s and 60s accounted for the largest share at 54.1% (65 people), followed by those aged 70 and above at 18.3% (22 people), those in their 30s and 40s at 15% (18 people), and those under 30 at 12.5% (15 people).
Since last year, Jeollanam-do has been implementing a 'Pilot Project for the Prevention and Management of Solitary Deaths.' The main components include ▲identifying and systematically managing high-risk groups ▲regular welfare checks ▲improving housing and living environments ▲operating programs to support the formation of social networks ▲post-management support, and more.
To further strengthen the identification and management of high-risk groups, Jeollanam-do will utilize the human safety network established in all 297 towns and districts in the province. A total of 31,187 members of the Community Social Security Council, Welfare Task Force, and local leaders will actively engage in identifying and preventing solitary deaths.
In particular, this year, the province plans to further strengthen its solitary death prevention system by expanding the application of information and communication technology (ICT). The plan includes supporting digital water meters that check real-time water usage and IoT care plugs that monitor electricity consumption, enabling the system to respond to warning signs of solitary death risks.
The province will also utilize AI speakers and welfare check-in services to remotely monitor the well-being of single-person households and the elderly, aiming to minimize care gaps.
Lee Sangsim, Director of Health and Welfare of Jeollanam-do, stated, "Solitary death is not just an individual's problem but an issue for society as a whole," and urged, "If you notice someone at risk of solitary death, please call Jeollanam-do's crisis support hotline at 120."
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