"Housing Stability Is the Start of Independence"... Achievements of Cheongnyeon On(Ga) in Gwangsan, Gwangju

Gwangsan-gu and Gwangju Urban Corporation Create Independent Housing for Youth
5 Out of 20 Residents Find Jobs
Positive Response to Life Skills, Psychological Support, and Cooking Programs

Start your day in your own room without worrying about monthly rent. It has been half a year since the youth independent housing 'Cheongnyeon On(Ga)' created by Gwangsan-gu, Gwangju opened its doors, and young residents are gradually finding direction in their lives within this stable environment.

Youth Independent Housing 'Cheongnyeon On(Ga)' Created by Gwangsan-gu, Gwangju. Provided by Gwangsan-gu

According to Gwangsan-gu on October 31, 'Cheongnyeon On(Ga)', established in collaboration with Gwangju Urban Corporation, is a four-story, multi-family residential facility supporting youth housing. With a deposit of 500,000 won and only utility bills to pay, there is no monthly rent. Each resident has a private room equipped with a bathroom, bed, air conditioning, and kitchen appliances, and they can freely use shared facilities such as a communal kitchen, laundry room, and unmanned cafe.

Among the 20 current residents, 16 are in their 20s and 4 are in their 30s. Since move-in began in April, five residents have secured employment over the past six months. Kim Hwajeong, head of the Youth Vitality Team at Gwangsan-gu, stated, "They found jobs in various fields, including construction-related occupations, baking and pastry, hotel services, and IT."

'Cheongnyeon On(Ga)' is operated not just as a residential space, but as a living infrastructure that supports the psychological and social independence of young people. The district is running 14 programs across four key areas: self-management, emotional and psychological stability, interpersonal relationships, and life stability. Kim added, "The cooking program received the highest satisfaction. It helped young people living alone develop basic life habits by making side dishes themselves."

Residents can stay at Cheongnyeon On(Ga) for up to two years, and there is currently no additional recruitment scheduled. Kim explained, "We plan to recruit new residents if vacancies arise, and there may be some changes in occupancy early next year."

Park Byungkyu, Mayor of Gwangsan-gu, stated, "'Cheongnyeon On(Ga)' is evolving into a comprehensive self-reliance support model that goes beyond simple housing assistance to encompass emotional, psychological, employment, and daily life independence for young people. We will strive to ensure the policy’s effectiveness continues and that its impact is increasingly felt."