Byungchul Gong of Gwangsan District Council Calls for Amendment to the Military Noise Compensation Act
Urgent Need for Comprehensive Measures Including Soundproofing, Alternative Learning, and Psychological Counseling
Byungchul Gong, a Gwangsan District Councilor in Gwangju, has called for the establishment of comprehensive support measures for six schools in the area affected by military noise.
According to the Gwangsan District Council on June 14, Councilor Gong (Democratic Party of Korea, representing Sinheung, Usan, Wolgok 1, Wolgok 2, and Unnam-dong) demanded countermeasures during a five-minute free speech session at the 297th regular meeting of the council held the previous day, stating, "The noise from fighter jets is infringing upon students' right to learn and their right to health."
The six schools located in the military airport noise countermeasure area are Songjeong Elementary School, Dosan Elementary School, Songjeong Elementary School, Songgwang Middle School, Software Meister High School, and Automation Equipment Meister High School. The total number of students and staff at these schools is approximately 2,800.
Councilor Gong pointed out, "The Military Noise Compensation Act is limited to compensation for individual property damage and does not provide a basis for support to educational facilities," and argued, "Schools should also be included as beneficiaries through an amendment to the law." He went on to say, "Practical measures such as soundproofing facilities, alternative learning, and psychological counseling are needed," and added, "The government and military should also strengthen communication systems with the local community." He further emphasized that "the Gwangsan District Council, Gwangsan District Office, and Gwangju Metropolitan Office of Education should join forces to urge the government, National Assembly, and Ministry of National Defense to improve the system."
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