Gwangsan District Out-of-School Youth Center in Gwangju Lacks Dedicated Space

Yoon Youngil Says, "A Curtain for Counseling... A Dedicated Space Is Needed"

Yoon Youngil, a Gwangsan District Councilor (Democratic Party of Korea, representing Bia, Singa, and Sinchang-dong), pointed out the poor conditions of the Gwangsan District Out-of-School Youth Support Center and urged for facility improvements.

According to the Gwangsan District Council on May 1, Councilor Yoon, during a five-minute free speech at the 296th Gwangsan District Council special session held the previous day, emphasized, "Out-of-school youth live in social isolation and anxiety about their future, and we must recognize that supporting them is about protecting the life of each individual."

Yoon Youngil, Gwangsan District Councilor, Gwangju.

As of last year, the number of out-of-school youth in Gwangsan District was around 450, the highest among Gwangju's autonomous districts. However, the support center is located on the second floor of the management building of Usan LH Complex 1 in Gwangsan District. Only one classroom and a counseling space separated by a curtain are in operation, and it is reported that classes are being conducted in a mixed environment with noise, as a senior citizens' center and a communal laundry room are also located on the same floor.

Councilor Yoon pointed out, "The center's counseling room is operated by simply installing a curtain on one side of the classroom, and frequent apartment announcements disrupt the classes." He added, "While most other districts have secured dedicated buildings, only Gwangsan District continues to remain in a temporary space."

Gwangsan District had previously considered relocating the center to other facilities, such as Songjeong Danuri Culture House, but these plans fell through, and there has been no significant progress for several years since.

Councilor Yoon stated, "Youth are the future, and society must support their growth," and stressed, "Gwangsan District, Gwangju City, and the Gwangju Office of Education must work together to address this issue."