Seoul metropolitan government collaborates with G-Dragon to strengthen youth drug prevention efforts

The Seoul Metropolitan Government has partnered with global K-pop star G-Dragon in a major initiative to combat rising drug use among young people. This collaboration aims to strengthen prevention efforts, ensure early intervention, and support rehabilitation.

On June 23, Seoul hosted a talk concert titled 'Drug Eradication: A Promise for the Future – Safe Seoul Together.' The event brought together key organizations to discuss a coordinated response to the increasing use of narcotics and to promote a safer, drug-free city.

During the event, a memorandum of understanding was signed among several stakeholders. These included the JusPeace foundation, founded by G-Dragon, as well as the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education, the Seoul Medical Association, the Korea Anti-Drug Campaign Headquarters, and 20 leading universities in Seoul. Mayor Oh Se Hoon attended the event to show his strong support for the initiative.

The JusPeace foundation will work alongside the city to launch joint anti-drug campaigns, combining art with public service to raise awareness. The participating organizations have committed to focusing on addiction treatment, rehabilitation programs, educational outreach, and the development of a preventative culture among youth.

A key objective of the initiative is to protect the "golden hour" for treatment. This refers to the critical early period when intervention is most effective. The organizations will provide prompt counseling and support for individuals in need, particularly young users identified during police investigations.

At present, treatment and rehabilitation typically begin only after legal procedures, such as indictments or sentencing. This system can delay care for several months to a year, creating a gap in support. To address this issue, Seoul plans to implement an early intervention model, allowing youth to access counseling and treatment immediately after initial contact with law enforcement.

The event was organized in advance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on June 26. It reflects Seoul’s determination to develop a structured, comprehensive approach to prevention, care, and recovery.

Mayor Oh Se Hoon emphasized the importance of the initiative. "Seoul City, along with the police, education authorities, universities, medical institutions, and civil organizations, is not just engaging in administrative cooperation. We are pledging to become a protective shield for society. We will build a strong support network so that people who want to escape drug use no longer feel helpless. This system will connect recovery, rehabilitation, education, and support, helping citizens regain control of their lives."