First Lady Kim Hye-kyung embarked on outreach activities for vulnerable populations in the lead-up to the Chuseok holiday. She met with individuals facing significant challenges, including those with disabilities and victims of domestic violence, to listen to their concerns and offer encouragement.
Support for Individuals with Disabilities
On September 18th, the First Lady attended the 7th-anniversary ceremony for the establishment of the Seoul National University Dental Hospital’s Center for the Oral Health of Persons with Disabilities. This specialized center provides dental care in a comfortable and safe environment for individuals who may find it difficult to receive treatment at general dental clinics. Such centers are designated and operated at 19 locations nationwide.
In her congratulatory remarks, Mrs. Kim acknowledged the difficulties individuals with disabilities face when seeking dental care. “It is not an easy process for those with disabilities to visit a dentist,” she stated. “I deeply thank the medical staff and all personnel who have strived over the past seven years to ensure they can receive treatment with peace of mind.” She became visibly emotional, expressing empathy for the caregivers, saying, “I cannot fathom how difficult it must be for the guardians.”
She personally held the hand of Kim Hanna, a patient with a disability, and listened intently to the story of her guardian, Kang Hae-jung. Following the ceremony, Mrs. Kim viewed artworks by patients with disabilities displayed in the hospital’s corridors. She also read each “hope butterfly” message, where patients wrote down their wishes and attached them to the hospital walls.
The First Lady added her own message to a hope butterfly, writing, “I wish for a better future where we can all smile together.” Seoul National University Dental Hospital Director Kim Sung-kyun expressed his gratitude for her visit, stating it was a “great source of strength.” In response, Mrs. Kim pledged, “I will continue to pay attention and work together so that individuals with disabilities can receive the necessary treatment in a timely manner.”
Encouragement for Domestic Violence Survivors
Later that day, Mrs. Kim also visited a shelter in Seoul providing refuge for victims of domestic violence. These facilities offer safe housing, counseling, and support for independence, aiding residents in their physical and emotional recovery, as well as their stable reintegration into society.
The First Lady toured the facility and met with residents, offering words of comfort and encouragement. One resident, who is preparing to obtain a certification for art therapy, showed Mrs. Kim a painting she had created. “It’s wonderful to see your bright appearance,” Mrs. Kim responded. “I hope only good things happen for you in the future.”
Addressing the residents, she said, “I offer words of comfort and support to those who have bravely sought help to escape violence and begin a new life.” She also expressed her gratitude to the shelter’s staff. Furthermore, Mrs. Kim emphasized the necessity of a protective system that can effectively ensure the safety of domestic violence survivors.
“We must strengthen the protection of victims and the separation from perpetrators so that no more lives are lost due to violence,” Mrs. Kim urged. “More meticulous attention and support are needed to help victims recover their daily lives and achieve independence in a safe living environment.”
Broader Implications and Future Commitment
The First Lady’s visits highlighted her commitment to addressing the needs of marginalized groups, particularly during a significant cultural holiday like Chuseok. Her engagement with individuals with disabilities and survivors of domestic violence underscores a focus on social welfare and the protection of vulnerable citizens.
Her remarks at both locations pointed towards a desire for systemic improvements. For individuals with disabilities, this included ensuring consistent access to specialized medical care. For survivors of domestic violence, the emphasis was on robust safety measures and support for long-term recovery and self-sufficiency.
The First Lady’s outreach serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by these communities and the importance of continued societal support and governmental attention. Her commitment to further involvement suggests a proactive approach to advocating for enhanced welfare systems and protective measures.
