This photo, provided by the gender ministry, shows a notice in a convenience store that promotes isolated or reclusive youths seeking help. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Jun. 11 (Korea Bizwire) — The gender ministry is set to launch an official survey on isolated and reclusive teens for the first time starting Tuesday as part of efforts to identify such groups and come up with support measures.
Isolated teenagers refer to those without someone to rely on in case of emergencies, and reclusive youths are people who stay inside their homes without engaging in any social activities.
The survey, set to last until the end of July, aims to identify when the isolation or reclusive period begins, its duration, and what triggered it, as well as their daily routine patterns, such as health condition, activities, and sleep status.
The ministry will then utilize the results to come up with measures according to their needs.
It will conduct a preliminary survey to determine whether one is apt for the official survey, and send a separate link through text message or email to those determined as isolated or reclusive youths.
Of the respondents, those deemed in need of help will be offered a set of comprehensive measures from the ministry, including consulting, treatment, and help with restoring family relationships.
The ministry estimates the number of isolated or reclusive youths at roughly 140,000.
(Yonhap)
