South Korean Prime Minister Han Seong-sook emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to drug issues, stating on September 13, "Drug response should not only focus on investigation and enforcement but also on rehabilitation and treatment. It is essential to establish a cooperative system among relevant agencies."
During the fourth "Open Brunch" event held at the Prime Minister's residence in Jongno, Seoul, Han discussed strategies for addressing drug-related issues, covering areas from investigation and enforcement to prevention, education, treatment, and rehabilitation.
The event included participants from law enforcement, prosecutors, customs officials involved in drug crime investigations, as well as practitioners from relevant ministries, addiction treatment specialists, and recovery support workers who assist individuals overcoming drug addiction.
The head of the drug crime investigation team at the Northern Police Agency, who investigated Philippine drug lord Park Wang-yeol, expressed optimism about the upcoming undercover investigation system set to be implemented in May 2027, which is expected to enhance evidence collection related to drug crimes. He also highlighted the importance of focusing on the treatment and rehabilitation of drug offenders.
Chun Young-hoon, president of Incheon Cham Sarang Hospital, stressed the need for a coordinated approach among various ministries based on field experience. Han Chang-gil, a recovery support worker who has overcome drug addiction, shared his belief that many individuals fail to quit drugs not due to inability but because they lack the right methods, underscoring the importance of rehabilitation education.
Participants agreed on the urgent need to strengthen prevention education and social awareness, particularly as drug-related crimes are rapidly spreading among youth and young adults.
Han stated, "Education on drug addiction is related to students' survival," and called for expanded educational initiatives targeting both parents and students.
The discussion also included rehabilitation programs for released offenders to support their reintegration into society. Attendees suggested that the effectiveness of addiction recovery programs implemented in correctional facilities should continue post-release, necessitating a support system that includes housing and employment opportunities.
The role of a control tower to coordinate policies scattered across various ministries was also a key topic. There was consensus on the need to enhance cooperation among relevant agencies, such as through the Drug Policy Council, to ensure seamless connections between prevention, enforcement, treatment, and rehabilitation.
Han remarked, "I felt the passion and sense of mission of field personnel in the drug sector during this meeting," and emphasized the need for public campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of rehabilitation and treatment.
She also stated, "I will review the tasks being pursued by each ministry to explore ways for the government to implement them promptly."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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