2025 Commemoration Ceremony for Child Abuse Prevention Day
We would like to extend our gratitude
to all the professionals from child protection agencies
and community child guardians who work tirelessly at the local level
and have joined us in today’s Commemoration Ceremony
for Child Abuse Prevention Day.
We all agree on the importance of preventing child abuse
and creating a healthy and happy society.
However, turning that agreement into action
requires diverse knowledge, information, and wisdom.
That is why we have invited Profiler Kwon Il-yong today
to share his valuable insights.
Preventing child abuse is crucial not only for individual well-being
but also as a task we must accomplish
for the health of society and the future of our nation.
If children have no hope, suffer in pain, and face a bleak future—
what does that say about the future of our society?
This issue calls for the attention of all citizens and every member of our nation.
According to statistics from the Ministry of Health and Welfare,
the situation is dire, with over 50,000 reports of abuse filed each year.
We cannot even begin to estimate how many unreported cases exist,
and not every reported case leads to resolution.
Incheon Metropolitan City is making every effort to achieve this goal.
We are implementing a variety of policies, including Angel Care and Emergency Care,
to ensure the proper upbringing of our children.
But policies alone are not enough. There are many blind spots,
and the wisdom and capabilities of those working in the field are essential.
Just before entering this venue,
the Director of Women and Family Affairs proudly shared
that the Child Policy Division of the Incheon Metropolitan City
won awards in all four domestic categories.
That is truly commendable.
Incheon has been receiving numerous awards lately, and we are proud of that.
However, the issue of child abuse is not exclusive to Incheon—it is a national concern.
Incheon is taking the lead in constantly evaluating
what is lacking and what must be further improved.
Our policies must be well-aligned with the realities in the field,
strengthened by professional competence and insight.
On this Child Abuse Prevention Day, let us engage in deep reflection
and actively listen to today’s speakers
so that their wisdom may lead to meaningful outcomes in the field.
We are also presenting commendations
to those who have made outstanding contributions.
Congratulations to all recipients.
Thank you for your tireless efforts that have helped ensure the safety of our communities.
Today’s ceremony is not just a one-day event—it marks a full week of activities.
We encourage you to participate in various hands-on programs
and visit the exhibits during this period.
Let us work together to ensure that Incheon becomes a leading
and exemplary city in the prevention of child abuse. Thank you.