Andong City Prioritizes Family-amiable Initiatives, Aiming for UNICEF Recognition
Andong City, South Korea, is undertaking a comprehensive series of initiatives designed to enhance childcare, family support, and children’s rights, with a long-term vision of becoming a certified UNICEF Child-Friendly City by teh second half of 2026. These efforts, already yielding tangible results for residents, underscore a commitment to creating a nurturing environment for both children and their parents.
Expanding access to Quality Childcare
Andong City has significantly expanded access to childcare services, benefiting 18,336 users of the centers and 11,579 users of the toy libraries as of October. Further enhancing these facilities, both the childcare support center and toy library underwent remodeling in November to provide safer and more comfortable spaces for infants and toddlers.
Innovative Programs Foster Family Bonds
Recognizing the importance of quality family time, Andong City has launched popular programs designed to strengthen familial connections. The “Andong Outside the Tent, Enjoy Co-parenting Through Camping” program, held three times between September and October, saw 180 participants from 45 families engage in recreational activities, bubble performances, and small concerts at Danho sand Park. Notably, the program actively included multicultural families and families with children with disabilities, promoting inclusivity and the value of shared parenting.
Comprehensive Care Network for all Ages
Andong City is expanding its care infrastructure to support families across all stages of childhood. The ‘K bodeum 6000’ program, offering extended night and weekend care, continues to operate effectively. A new joint childcare sharing center, specializing in care for 0-year-olds, is slated to open in December at Yeongmu Yedaum Apartment, alongside a new community Care Center, concentrating care resources within the complex.
Pursuing UNICEF Child-Friendly City Certification
In a significant step towards its long-term goals, Andong City signed a buisness agreement with UNICEF in 2025. This collaboration involved conducting standard surveys and gathering citizen feedback to develop a comprehensive plan for becoming a UNICEF Child-Friendly City. The establishment of a ‘Child Participation Commitee’ further demonstrates the city’s commitment to incorporating children’s voices into policy-making. Certification would unlock access to capacity-building training, professional guidance from UNICEF, and opportunities for collaboration with other child-friendly cities globally.
Enriching Experiences for Children and Families
Andong City actively provides diverse experiences for children and families through initiatives like the ‘Child Happiness Four Seasons Imaginary Play Program’ and Children’s Week events. These programs, tailored to the seasons, attracted a total of 24,260 participants annually, including 14,500 attendees at the Amsan Ice Festival, 360 participants in nature-friendly playground programs, 1,400 attendees at summer performances, and 8,000 attendees at Children’s Week events.
Targeted Support for Vulnerable Families
The city is strengthening care policies to address gaps in childcare, especially for dual-income and single-parent families. 159 individuals utilized the ‘Sick Child Hospital Accompanying Service,’ while four care services linked to senior citizens were implemented. The expansion of “all together” care centers to seven locations further improves the regional care system and alleviates the burden on parents. Additionally, 194 caregivers are now supporting 620 children, and 135 multicultural families received customized assistance, including home visits, childbirth support, child mentoring, and psychological therapy.
Prioritizing Child Safety and Well-being
andong City is actively working to create a safe environment for children. The Case Decision Committee and Data Link Council convened 15 times to enhance inter-agency cooperation in addressing child abuse cases. Twelve public awareness campaigns were conducted to prevent child abuse, and a systematic approach to managing 140 children requiring protection was implemented.
“I deeply empathize with the reality that parents are devoted to the happiness of their children,” stated Andong Mayor Kwon Ki-chang.”With the mindset that Andong City will raise children together, we will continue to discover various projects that can ease the burden on parents. We will continue to do our best to make Andong a good place to raise children.”
