By Honorary Reporter Lewis Hooper from U.K.
Photos = Ministry of Justice and Ministry of Employment and Labor

I joined other Honorary Reporters on Sept. 17 on a tour of Hwaseong Vocational Training Correctional Institution to observe its vocational and rehabilitation programs.

The prison's approach to rehabilitation, vocational development and reintegration into society attracts inmates nationwide. Applicants are selected from prisons across the country through a structured process.

During the tour, we observed inmates training in a range of disciplines like ceramics and 3D and mechanical design. The goal was to help bridge the gap between incarceration and future employment by providing participants with practical knowledge and industry-related skills.

Training varies in duration, with some going longer than six months. Inmates can choose from among 26 courses each taking 4 1/2 hours each day.

Upon completion, participants can obtain industry-level qualifications through on-site testing in fields such as automotive repair, welding, baking, pastry making, and Korean and Chinese cuisine.

Individual cells are for inmates requiring specialized conditions, while many accommodate approximately five to six prisoners. With vocational training, psychological support and pre-release programs, this prison demonstrates the importance of developing the skills required for life after incarceration.

ljyhwa@korea.kr

*This article was written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.