“어둠 대신 가능성을”…경기도, 고립·은둔 청년 대신 ‘숨은빛 청년’으로

The Korean government and the My Future Generation Foundation have taken a bold move to shift their perspective on young people facing loneliness and isolation in the province of Gyeonggi-do. The My Future Generation Foundation recently announced that they have identified the term "Hidden Light Youth" as the new representative name for these individuals at a 21-day event.

This renaming project aimed to address the negative connotations associated with the old name, focusing instead on the potential and recovery possibilities of the youth. Out of 1518 submissions, 3309 names were proposed, and after a thorough review process, "Hidden Light Youth" emerged as the chosen name, symbolizing the hope that every young person possesses an inner light and the capacity for growth, even if it remains unseen.

Other notable names included "Daily Recovery Preparation Youth" and "Self Help Youth." Currently, it's estimated that approximately 5.9% of Gyeonggi-do's 19-39 age group, or around 22,000 young people, are experiencing isolation or withdrawal. The main factors contributing to this issue are employment struggles, failed relocations, interpersonal stress, and psychological anxiety.

To support these individuals, the foundation is now offering tailored assistance, including self-assessment, one-on-one psychological counseling, a "Daily Recovery Program" to regain healthy routines, "Social Adaptation Enhancement" through group activities, and "Skill Enhancement Training" linked to employment and entrepreneurship.

Additionally, the foundation will provide family counseling to help alleviate the emotional burden on loved ones. The foundation's president, Kim Hyun-sam, expressed hope that this new name would change the focus from viewing these young people as isolated or negatively perceived to seeing them as potential for recovery. He further stated his commitment to broadening the societal support network for these individuals.