The concept of "social welfare facilities" in South Korea encompasses diverse types and forms. A social welfare facility refers to a facility established for the purpose of conducting social welfare services as stipulated in Article 2 of the Social Welfare Service Act. In South Korea, all activities related to social welfare services fall under the purview of this basic law. These facilities vary, some being non-profit-oriented and operated with government subsidies, while others operate for-profit, relying on user fees without government aid. Social welfare facilities can be broadly categorized into two types: service facilities and residential facilities. There are approximately 68 detailed subtypes, including long-term care facilities for the elderly, childcare centers, among others, all falling under the classification of social welfare facilities. Additionally, the departments overseeing social welfare facilities are divided into several entities.
Concept of Social Welfare Facilities
Whether a facility is deemed a social welfare facility is not subjectively determined by the facility operator but rather based on whether substantial social welfare services are provided (Social Welfare Facility Management Guide, 2023). In other words, if the activities conducted meet the criteria of social welfare services, the facility falls under the application of the Social Welfare Service Act, even if it hasn't been established or reported as a social welfare facility. Legally, the definition of a social welfare facility is "a facility established for the purpose of conducting social welfare services as defined in Article 2 of the Social Welfare Service Act."
<Article 2 of the Social Welfare Service Act>
" Article 2 (Definitions) The terms used in this Act are defined as follows: "
" 1. The term "social welfare program" means any program for protection, guidance, or welfare under any of the following Acts, various welfare programs for social welfare counseling, vocational support services, free accommodation, community welfare, medical care, home care services, operation of community welfare centers, and rehabilitation of those who suffer from mental diseases or Hansen's disease, and other programs for providing voluntary services related thereto and for operating or supporting welfare facilities:
...(Omitted)...
" 4. The term "social welfare facility" means any facility established to implement social welfare programs;”
...(Further omitted)...
Types of Social Welfare Facilities
The classification of social welfare facilities is determined based on legislation, and detailed subtypes are categorized according to the guidelines provided by the Ministry of Health and Welfare. Social welfare facilities are broadly divided into two types: residential facilities and service facilities. Residential facilities refer to places where individuals reside and receive welfare services, while service facilities are places individuals visit to access welfare services.
Within residential and service facilities, approximately 68 detailed subtypes are further classified based on the nature of services provided or activities performed for each welfare recipient group (elderly, people with disabilities, children, homeless individuals, etc.). This classification is specified in the "Social Welfare Facility Management Guide, " an annual guideline issued by the Ministry of Health and Welfare.
There are approximately 17 relevant laws governing the establishment basis for social welfare facilities categorized by subtype. It's important not to confuse the fact that while there are approximately 31 individual laws defining "social welfare services, " there are about 17 individual laws that define the "establishment basis for social welfare facilities." In other words, institutions not falling under the facility types listed in the table may still be engaged in social welfare services, but they might not be considered welfare facilities. To reiterate, performing "social welfare services" doesn't necessarily mean automatic classification as a social welfare facility (Social Welfare Services ≠ Social Welfare Facilities).
Departments Overseeing Social Welfare Facility Types
The primary central authorities responsible for the installation and operation of social welfare facilities include the Ministry of Health and Welfare, the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family, and the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, totaling three organizations. Among these, the Ministry of Health and Welfare oversees approximately 45 types of facilities, the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family manages 22 types, and the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency oversees one type. Therefore, the most accurate information regarding project guidance, institutional changes, etc., can be found in the materials and guidelines published by the relevant departments. Each department responsible for a variety of welfare programs publishes an annual "Operation Guide" (a kind of project guide), so it is important to check information about changes each year.
Conclusion
The fact that there are 68 subtypes of social welfare facilities suggests that anyone who intends to operate them will need to fully understand the guidelines of each department in charge. The widespread subtypes of social welfare facilities currently suggest that they may be further subdivided in the future. This is due to the continuous evolution and diversification of user needs, as well as continuous policy efforts to address the limitations of existing facilities and provide additional services. Nevertheless, it is worth remembering that at the heart of all social welfare facilities and social services is the principle of "people-centered."