Serious Physical and Psychological Harm Such as Stress and Insomnia
The Seo-gu Council of Gwangju has called for the establishment of practical and comprehensive support measures for schools in the region suffering from military airport noise damage.
On May 8, Councilor Yoon Jungmin of Seo-gu stated during the 330th temporary session's "5-Minute Free Speech" that "there are as many as seven schools in Seo-gu, Gwangju classified as areas affected by military airport noise," and pointed out that "this constitutes a serious infringement on the learning rights and health rights of students and teachers at these schools."
According to a Ministry of National Defense announcement, seven schools?Gwangju Gyesu Elementary School, Chipyeong Elementary School, Uncheon Elementary School, Jeonnam Middle School, Songhak Elementary School, Jeonnam High School, and Saegwang School?have been designated as Type 2 or 3 noise-affected areas, as their daily average total noise WECPNL (Weighted Equivalent Continuous Perceived Noise Level) index exceeds the standard.
Councilor Yoon stated, "Military airport noise has led to class interruptions, decreased concentration, and violations of learning rights, as well as serious physical and psychological harm such as hearing loss, stress, and insomnia." She cited a Seoul National University study, saying, "The learning efficiency of students in noise-affected areas was found to be significantly lower than that of general students."
She continued, "Other local governments such as Seoul, Jeju, and Bucheon are implementing multifaceted policies, including psychological recovery programs and commuting support, in addition to soundproofing facilities," and stressed, "Gwangju City also needs a comprehensive plan that goes beyond facility improvements to include emotional recovery."
Regarding the recently established five-year mid- to long-term plan by the Gwangju Metropolitan Office of Education to respond to military airport noise damage, she evaluated the pilot projects?such as window replacement, expansion of ventilation facilities, and installation of soundproofing facilities?as positive, but added, "Meticulous administration that considers the feelings of those affected is also necessary."
In conclusion, Councilor Yoon reiterated, "Relocating the military airport is a long-term task, but protecting our children until then is something we must do right now." She urged, "We must regard noise damage not as a simple civil complaint, but as a constitutional rights issue, and take active and practical measures in response."
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