Sokcho City Launches Tailored "2026 Lonely Death Prevention Implementation Plan" as Single-Person Households Reach 46%

Sokcho City Launches Full-Scale Implementation of 2026 Lonely Death Prevention Plan
Building a Robust Safety Net Through AI and Public-Private Partnerships

Sokcho City in Gangwon Province has established the "2026 Lonely Death Prevention Implementation Plan" to proactively address the growing issues of social isolation and lonely deaths, which are being exacerbated by the increase in single-person households and the weakening of social networks. The city will work with the local community to strengthen a comprehensive safety net.

View of Sokcho City Hall.

As of the end of 2025, there were 18,963 single-person households in Sokcho City, accounting for approximately 46% of all households. Notably, the proportion of single-person households among those aged 35 to 64 stands at 45%, surpassing the 43% share among elderly single-person households. This indicates that the risk of lonely deaths is spreading to the middle-aged population, prompting the city to strengthen its response accordingly.

This implementation plan focuses on the early identification of high-risk groups for lonely deaths and on strengthening support through public-private partnerships. It also includes targeted measures to address the risk of social disconnection among the middle-aged population (those in their 50s and 60s).

Sokcho City has continuously promoted foundational projects to prevent lonely deaths. By operating "Our Neighborhood Care Stores" in collaboration with local businesses, the city has enhanced a system that enables store owners to immediately report and connect crisis situations, thereby strengthening detection mechanisms in daily life. A welfare crisis detection team has also been established to provide operational support. Additionally, the city has expanded non-face-to-face care by offering ICT-based welfare check services tailored to individual circumstances, such as monitoring electricity and communication usage, milk delivery, and care robot support.

Building on these achievements, the city will implement even stronger initiatives in 2026. It plans to expand the AI digital-based two-way welfare check system and develop programs that reflect the characteristics of different life stages, including youth, middle-aged, and elderly residents. The city will also focus on identifying middle-aged individuals at high risk of unemployment and social disconnection, and will expand self-help groups and programs to build social networks.

Lee Byeongseon, Mayor of Sokcho City, stated, "Social isolation and lonely deaths are issues that can affect anyone, so we will establish a system that enables the entire community to detect and respond to warning signs together. We will continue to work toward creating an environment where no one is left isolated."