The Ministry of Justice is expanding specialized rehabilitation programs nationwide. The effort centers on strengthening family bonds to reduce repeat offenses by young offenders.
In Seoul, programs guide mothers and children through activities such as making perfume, park walks and writing letters. In Gwangju, youth use auto maintenance skills to service parents' cars, while in Cheongju they offer nail art and hand massages.
As of June 30, 2026, the programs recorded 34 sessions with 202 students and 247 family members. A total of 198 youth took part in full-day residential stays. The ministry has also distributed 4500 copies of a new handbook.
Justice Minister Jung Sung-ho stated that a stable home is the most critical factor in preventing relapse. One student said, “My hands used to be broken, only capable of stealing and fighting. But today, with these same hands, I was able to give something back to my mom and dad.” A parent noted, “It was the first day I saw real hope on my child's face.”
