The Korean National Police Agency (KNPA) and the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) have launched a cooperation initiative under the "Geunyang Dream" program to quickly identify and assist citizens struggling with their livelihoods in the field. The partnership aims to reduce blind spots in welfare coverage by linking police fieldwork with welfare services.
The KNPA and MOHW announced Wednesday that they signed a memorandum of understanding for cooperation on the Geunyang Dream program.
The Geunyang Dream program is an emergency support initiative that provides basic food and daily necessities without any application process or income eligibility requirements. Currently, 129 service corners operate across 68 municipalities nationwide, offering not only material support but also counseling and connections to welfare services.
Under the agreement, police officers will guide residents found to be in financial hardship during patrols and other field activities to nearby Geunyang Dream corners. Both agencies expect the partnership to enable faster delivery of support to at-risk households identified through frontline contact.
"By collaborating with the agency that encounters residents first in the field, we will detect and assist those in need more quickly, building a stronger social safety net," Minister of Health and Welfare Chung Eun-kyeong said.
"We will do our best to actively identify vulnerable populations during field operations and work closely with the Ministry of Health and Welfare to ensure rapid support reaches citizens in need," acting Korean National Police Agency Commissioner General Yoo Jae-sung said.