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Beyond Shelter: A Comparative Study on the Right to Independent Living and De-institutionalization through the Lens of Fair Housing and the SDGs†
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Hyunseung Lee
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Received January 15, 2026 Accepted February 9, 2026 Published online February 23, 2026
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2026.005
[Epub ahead of print]
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Abstract
This study investigates how the right to housing choice facilitates de-institutionalization and social justice for persons with disabilities through the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Within international human rights discourse, housing is defined not merely as physical shelter but as a fundamental right encompassing dignity, safety, and the ability to live in peace. The analysis identifies a critical paradigm shift from the medical model of disability toward a social model that emphasizes the removal of societal barriers. Using a comparative methodology, the research evaluates international norms and case studies from the United States and the European Union against South Korea’s domestic policies. It specifically analyzes the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD) to identify normative and fairness gaps within the current administrative framework.
Analysis reveals a significant fair housing gap in South Korea, where a discretionary welfare model persists instead of a mandatory rights-based Housing First approach. Domestic structures often rely on a linear care model, whereas international precedents favor immediate community integration. Furthermore, spatial stratification and socio-spatial inequalities exacerbate the exclusion of disadvantaged groups from essential economic and service facilities. These barriers are complicated by the NIMBY phenomenon, where social connections among neighbors can paradoxically increase resistance to inclusive neighborhood planning. The paper advocates for a mandatory integration mandate and individualized funding to ensure substantive autonomy and community inclusion. It proposes developing multi-centric urban structures to decentralize services and improve accessibility across regions.
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Empowering Single Parent Households: A Web Platform to Address Systematic Gaps in Welfare and Care Support†
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Mingyu Park
, Juhyeong Song
, Jiwon Park
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IGEE Proc. 2025;2(2):94-102. Published online June 19, 2025
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.016
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Single parent households in South Korea face significant barriers in accessing welfare support due to fragmented information systems, persistent social stigma, and limited policy utilization. Despite the existence of various support programs, gaps in practical accessibility and reliability remain. This study aimed to develop a web-based platform that improves access to parenting, welfare, and emotional support information for single parent households, thereby promoting self-reliance and social inclusion.
A full-stack web platform was developed using React.js, Next.js, Node.js, MongoDB, AWS S3, and the OpenAI GPT-4 API. The platform includes key functions such as an AI-powered chatbot, parenting diaries, health management tools, and structured access to verified welfare information. Domain-specific prompt engi-neering was applied to improve chatbot accuracy and empathy. The study did not involve human participants but relied on literature-based needs analysis and system design methodologies.
The developed platform successfully integrated reliable information delivery, real-time AI-based guidance, and tools for tracking child health and caregiving. It addressed challenges such as low information reliability, limited support networks, and emotional isolation. Preliminary implementation confirmed the platform’s usability and relevance, although features like automated policy updates and geolocation services remain in development.
The platform demonstrates the potential of digital solutions to mitigate systemic gaps in welfare information and caregiving support for single parent households. By aligning with key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the platform not only alleviates parenting burdens in the short term but also contributes to long-term goals of gender equity, health access, and social inclusion. Further iterations will focus on improving mobile accessi-bility, scaling user engagement, and enhancing AI accuracy.
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Revitalization and Awareness of Domestic and International Food Upcycling Industries†
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MinJoo Kim
, JiHyun Choi
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IGEE Proc. 2024;1(1):56-64. Published online September 30, 2024
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2024.009
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Food upcycling refers to the process of reprocessing food by-products generated in the food production process into new products with higher added value. This study aims to achieve a sustainable food system by promoting consumer awareness of food upcycling and revitalizing the domestic food upcycling industry in alignment with UN-SDGs 17 and 2.
We utilized the 5 Forces Model and SWOT Analysis to evaluate the domestic market and analyzed financial statements from CRETOP for food upcycling companies. Additionally, we conducted interviews with industry CEOs to understand trends and consumer perceptions.
The market analysis indicates that while the industry faces initial profitability challenges, its growth potential is strong, driven by increasing sales and positive market conditions. The analysis highlights the need for consumer awareness and producer sustainability. Through consumer surveys and corporate interviews, we identified a rejection and prejudice towards "food upcycling" and "upcycling jam," as well as effective marketing strategies.
South Korea's food upcycling industry shows promise despite its smaller scale compared to North America and Europe. Positive market conditions and consumer responses suggest significant growth potential through in-ternational benchmarking and private investments. Government support and corporate involvement are crucial for sustaining operations and achieving long-term economic, nutritional, and environmental benefits. The government can facilitate a long-term sustainable food system through policies that boost private investments and enhance funding to ensure product safety and reliability. Establishing food upcycling certification systems and legal proposals will be essential in this process.
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Summary