South Korean City of Gwangju’s Nam-gu District Honored for Innovative Allergy and Asthma Prevention Program
Nam-gu, a district within Gwangju City, South Korea, has been recognized as a national leader in atopy and asthma prevention, earning the prestigious Minister of Health and Welfare Award for its comprehensive 2025 program. The district stands out as the sole recipient of this honor within the Gwangju and Jeollanam-do provinces, a testament to its dedication to improving respiratory health for its residents.
National Recognition for Community-Focused Approach
The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) conducted a nationwide evaluation of local government initiatives aimed at preventing and managing allergic diseases. Nam-gu distinguished itself through its effective use of community resources and the establishment of a robust allergic disease management system centered around schools and public health centers. The district will formally receive the award at a ceremony in Seoul on Thursday, July 24th.
Key Evaluation Criteria and Program Successes
The KDCA’s evaluation focused on several key indicators, including the number of atopy and asthma-safe school certifications, the level of community project engagement, and increased public awareness of allergic diseases. Nam-gu’s success in these areas propelled it to the top of the rankings, placing it among only four local governments nationwide to receive the Minister of Health and Welfare Award.
According to a senior official, Nam-gu’s program was specifically lauded for its tailored approach, developed using national health surveys and local community health statistics. This data-driven strategy allowed the district to address the unique needs of its population.
Expanding Safe Environments for Children
A cornerstone of Nam-gu’s success has been the expansion of its “atopy and asthma-safe school” program. Initially covering 45 schools in 2022, the initiative now encompasses 71 schools – including daycare centers, kindergartens, elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as special education facilities – making it the most extensive program of its kind within the Gwangju region.
Supporting Vulnerable Populations and Raising Awareness
Beyond school-based initiatives, Nam-gu has prioritized early detection and ongoing management of allergic diseases, particularly among vulnerable children. The district has provided financial assistance for moisturizers and medical expenses, ensuring access to essential care. Furthermore, Nam-gu has actively promoted healthy living through engaging health lectures, including innovative programs like puppet shows designed to educate children in an accessible format.
Efforts to raise awareness extend beyond schools, with face-to-face and online educational programs offered at senior centers and local children’s centers. These initiatives aim to foster a community-wide understanding of allergy and asthma prevention and management.
A Commitment to Health Equity
Nam-gu officials have affirmed their commitment to building upon this success. “We will continue to strengthen the atopy and asthma prevention and management project to encourage local residents to live healthy lives, and do our best to improve health equity for children from vulnerable groups,” a district spokesperson stated. This dedication signals a continued focus on creating a healthier future for all residents of Nam-gu.
