Discovery, Psychological Counseling, and Lifelong Education Programs for Individuals with Borderline Intellectual Functioning
Individuals with borderline intellectual functioning are defined as those with an intelligence quotient (IQ) between 71 and 84, which places them on the borderline between non-disabled individuals and those with intellectual disabilities (IQ 70 or below). They account for approximately 13.6% of the total population in Korea. Although they face difficulties in learning and social adaptation due to cognitive limitations, they are not legally classified as having intellectual disabilities and thus fall into a policy blind spot.
Seocho District established the "Seocho Najeunultari Lifelong Learning Center" near Sinbanpo Station (16, Sinbanporo 15-gil, 3rd floor), with a total area of 67 square meters, to discover and select individuals with borderline intellectual functioning and provide one-stop, customized educational support.
Previously, in 2021, the district enacted the "Seocho District Borderline Intellectual Functioning Support Ordinance," the first of its kind among local governments nationwide, and in 2023, revised it to the "Seocho District Borderline Intellectual Functioning Lifelong Education Support Ordinance," expanding the scope of lifelong education support to all age groups.
Last year, the district conducted a research project to understand the actual conditions and status of individuals with borderline intellectual functioning in the area. This highlighted the need to establish a lifelong learning center that could serve as a control tower for more effective support.
As a result, the "Seocho Najeunultari Lifelong Learning Center," which opened this year, is equipped with counseling rooms and program rooms for individuals with borderline intellectual functioning. The center provides services such as identifying eligible individuals through screening tests, offering customized education tailored to each stage of life, and connecting and supporting local programs. Among those eligible for support, low-income individuals will be given priority. The center plans to focus on providing diverse educational opportunities to foster growth and self-reliance among individuals with borderline intellectual functioning.
At the opening ceremony, Seocho District Mayor Jeon Seongsu, city and district council members, individuals with borderline intellectual functioning, parents, and representatives from other organizations attended to celebrate the establishment of a warm space where individuals with borderline intellectual functioning can learn and grow at any time. On the same day, Song Yeonsuk, Chairperson of the Slow Learners Citizens' Association, held a special talk concert titled "Understanding Individuals with Borderline Intellectual Functioning: A to Z."
Seocho District Mayor Jeon Seongsu stated, "The 'Seocho Najeunultari Lifelong Learning Center' is a space for learning that embraces differences and opens up possibilities. We will listen to the voices of families and stakeholders of individuals with borderline intellectual functioning and take the lead in realizing inclusive educational welfare where warm care and practical education take place."
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