Comprehensive Campaign to Combat Youth Gambling

Hana Financial Group’s initiative is a comprehensive effort to address the rising issue of youth gambling addiction in South Korea. The campaign will focus on both prevention and treatment, ensuring a holistic approach to the problem. By investing $7.3 million, Hana Financial aims to create a robust framework that includes educational programs, public awareness campaigns, and mental health support.

The collaboration with the Korea Problem Gambling Agency and support from governmental bodies such as the Financial Supervisory Service and the National Police Agency underscores the seriousness of this initiative. The campaign will involve producing educational content like musicals, animations, and webtoons targeted at teenagers. These efforts aim to educate young people about the risks associated with gambling and equip them with the tools to resist temptation.

Mental health support is a crucial aspect of this initiative. Hana Financial has committed to facilitating 24,000 consultations over the next three years, connecting gambling-addicted youth with professional psychologists and counselors. This support network is essential in providing the necessary help for young people to overcome gambling addiction and lead healthier lives.

Strategic Partnerships and Community Engagement

The success of this initiative relies heavily on strategic partnerships and community engagement. Hana Financial has enlisted the help of Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok, a professional esports player, as the ambassador for the campaign. Faker’s involvement is expected to resonate deeply with teenagers, many of whom are avid fans of esports. His influence will help amplify the campaign’s message and reach a broader audience.

Community engagement is another critical component of the campaign. Workshops will be held in schools and community centers across the country to raise awareness about the dangers of gambling. These workshops will provide teenagers with practical knowledge and strategies to avoid gambling. Additionally, public awareness campaigns will be conducted to educate parents and guardians about the signs of gambling addiction and how to support their children.

The collaboration with various governmental bodies ensures that the campaign has the necessary support and resources to be effective. The Financial Supervisory Service, National Gambling Control Commission, and Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education are all involved in this initiative, highlighting the importance of a coordinated effort to tackle youth gambling addiction.

Future Prospects and Long-Term Impact

Hana Financial’s investment in this initiative is not just a short-term solution but a long-term commitment to addressing youth gambling addiction. The three-year campaign is designed to create lasting change by building a strong foundation for prevention and treatment. By focusing on education, mental health support, and community engagement, Hana Financial aims to create a sustainable impact that will benefit future generations.

The success of this initiative could serve as a model for other countries facing similar challenges. By demonstrating the effectiveness of a comprehensive approach to tackling youth gambling addiction, Hana Financial hopes to inspire other organizations and governments to take similar actions. The long-term impact of this campaign will be measured by the reduction in youth gambling rates and the improved mental health of young people in South Korea.

Hana Financial Group Chairman Ham Young-joo emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating that the company is committed to creating a social safety net for young people. By investing in prevention, promotion, and care, Hana Financial aims to protect the youth from the dangers of gambling and ensure a healthier future for the next generation.