The Ministry of Justice, led by Acting Minister Lee Jin-soo, announced on September 26, 2026, that it has conducted various rehabilitation events in correctional facilities nationwide from September 14 to 28 to promote emotional stability and smooth reintegration into society for inmates.
This year's Chuseok rehabilitation events focused on fostering communication and rebuilding relationships among families, helping inmates gain strength to return to their homes and communities after release.
As part of the initiative, 43 institutions, including Daejeon Correctional Facility, organized 'family reunion times' where inmates could meet and talk with their families. Additionally, 29 institutions facilitated 'filial letters and gift sending' for inmates unable to meet their families in person, allowing them to send heartfelt letters and gifts.
Notably, at the Seoul Southern Detention Center, an inmate who had not seen his mother for 28 years since childhood was reunited with her during the 'family reunion time.' The mother warmly embraced her son after so many years apart, offering her support, while the inmate reflected on the importance of family and pledged to live diligently during his incarceration.
At Cheongju Women’s Correctional Facility, a 'Family Love Camp' was held, involving four inmates and 12 family members. They participated in activities such as kicking a traditional Korean shuttlecock, flying paper airplanes, and creating a seaside garden, providing a meaningful opportunity to share feelings that had long been unexpressed.
Additionally, time was set aside to share traditional holiday customs. Each institution held a 'joint ritual for inmates' and organized rehabilitation performances and folk games to ensure that inmates could celebrate the holiday in a calm and stable atmosphere.
Outside the correctional facilities, community support contributed to the efforts. Donations totaling 73 million won from correctional committee members and local communities were used to assist underprivileged inmates. Furthermore, over 180 million won worth of songpyeon (rice cakes), fruits, and bread were distributed to all inmates, ensuring that those who had lost contact with their families or faced financial difficulties could also enjoy a warm holiday.
Acting Minister Lee Jin-soo expressed, 'Holidays are a time when the absence of family is felt more acutely, and I hope these reunions serve as a starting point for reconnecting broken relationships.' He also extended gratitude to the correctional committee members and the community for their support for the inmates, as well as appreciation for the hard work of correctional officers who remain on duty during the Chuseok holiday.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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