South Korea announces state care system for developmental disabilities

Following the death of author Jeon Kyeong-cheol, known as the ‘Peter Pan Dad’ for his lifelong care of his son with severe autism, the South Korean government has announced a comprehensive state responsibility system for developmental disability care.

Jeon, who passed away on June 5 after a battle with liver cancer, had spent his final months seeking long-term residential facilities for his son. His struggle highlighted the immense burden placed on families of individuals with developmental disabilities. In response, the Ministry of Health and Welfare, in collaboration with multiple government agencies, unveiled a plan to provide life-cycle support ranging from infancy to adulthood.

Key measures include expanding childcare support, increasing the number of specialized daycare centers, and enhancing services for school-aged children. For adults, the government aims to expand daytime activity services to 30,000 people by 2030. Notably, the plan introduces a ‘365-day care’ system to ensure that individuals with severe disabilities receive support even on weekends, particularly when parents are elderly, ill, or deceased.

Jeon’s legacy continues through the Peter Pan Foundation and the planned ‘Neverland Village,’ a community intended to allow people with severe disabilities to live with dignity. Proceeds from his posthumous writings will be donated to the foundation.