Gyeonggi-do Holds 'Dodam Todak' for Suicide Prevention Day, Providing a Space for Comfort and Communication

Gyeonggi-do held the "2025 Gyeonggi-do Life Love Commemoration Event Dodam Todak" at Dodamso in Suwon on the 23rd.

This event was organized in recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day (September 10) to honor those who have contributed to suicide prevention, and to promote a culture of respecting life by providing a space for Gyeonggi-do residents and those who have lost family members or acquaintances to suicide to communicate and connect.

The first part of the ceremony began with an opening video depicting the journey from the pain of loss to recovery. During the "Todakcon" performance, singer Yurisangja delivered a message of warm comfort and hope to the attendees, leaving a profound impact. In addition, 33 individuals who contributed to suicide prevention and disaster psychological support were awarded the Gyeonggi-do Governor's Commendation, expressing gratitude for their efforts to protect the lives of residents.

The second part focused on providing comfort and communication for suicide survivors. During the "Todak Talk" (special lecture), participants listened directly to the stories of suicide survivors, and then shared suppressed emotions and recovery experiences through "Todak Among Us," a tailored self-help group based on their relationship with the deceased. The final session offered a healing program to help participants rest their weary bodies and minds. In addition, various side events were held throughout the venue, including the "Todak Gallery" (memorial poetry exhibition, etc.), "Todak Caricature," "Todak Mind Check," and "Todak One Cut" (self-photo booth).

Gyeonggi Province held the "2025 Gyeonggi Province Life Love Commemoration Event Dodam Todak" at Dodamso on the 23rd, where Yurisangja performed the Todakcon concert. Provided by Gyeonggi Province

Previously, in 2020, Gyeonggi-do became the first in the nation to establish a Mental Health Division that includes a Suicide Prevention Team, and completed the installation of suicide prevention centers in all 31 cities and counties, including the Gyeonggi-do Regional Center, building the largest suicide prevention infrastructure in the country.

Furthermore, the province is strengthening its on-site suicide prevention response by increasing the number of professionals at suicide prevention centers. In particular, through the "Mind Care" project targeting adolescents, young adults, and seniors, Gyeonggi-do provides financial support for outpatient psychiatric treatment, directly assisting more than 10,000 people each year. These tailored support measures and infrastructure expansion are recognized as exemplary achievements, positioning Gyeonggi-do as a leading model for national suicide prevention policy.

Kim Sungjung, the First Vice Governor of Gyeonggi-do, stated, "Suicide is an issue that extends beyond individual suffering and must be addressed by society as a whole," adding, "Gyeonggi-do will continue to do its utmost to protect the lives of residents through a more comprehensive safety net and a healing support system."