Lee Jae Myung Vows to Implement State Responsibility System for Care of People with Developmental and Mental Disabilities

Lee Jae Myung, former Democratic Party leader and presidential primary candidate of the Democratic Party of Korea, announced on April 20 that he would implement a state responsibility system for the care of people with developmental and mental disabilities.

Lee Jae Myung, former Democratic Party leader and presidential primary candidate of the Democratic Party of Korea, is giving a speech at the "Chungcheong Region Joint Debate for the Selection of the 21st Presidential Election Candidate" held at Cheongju Gymnasium in Chungbuk on the afternoon of the 19th. Photo by Yonhap News

On this day, which marks "Day of Persons with Disabilities," Lee made this statement through his social networking service (SNS), saying, "We will increase support for the daily lives of persons with disabilities to minimize the caregiving burden on their families."

He said, "There are families who give up their livelihoods to care for their loved ones, and parents who cannot bring themselves to leave their children alone sometimes even contemplate ending their lives together. We can no longer stand by and allow the tragedy of entire families' lives slowly falling apart to be repeated."

He went on to say, "We will strengthen personalized services for each individual with disabilities," and added, "We will establish a one-stop system where people can receive as much service as they need, close to home."

He also stated, "We will improve transportation facilities for people with disabilities and expand special transportation options," and added, "We will also expand 'universal design,' which is design for all."

Lee has previously pledged to secure a foundation for community-based independent living, implement "integrated education for all," and establish a personalized support system for people with disabilities using AI and digital technologies.