Fund Launched in Memory of Undocumented Migrant Child to Aid Vulnerable Youths

The 'Trustworthy Kang Tae-wan Fund' has been established in memory of Kang Tae-wan, an undocumented migrant child who died at the age of 32 in an industrial accident just five months after obtaining a conditional residency visa. Kang, who lived in South Korea as an undocumented child since the age of five, became a symbol for the struggles faced by many migrant youths. The fund aims to serve as an 'emergency support system' for 'next Tae-wans' – young migrants whose lives have been derailed by systemic challenges in South Korea.

“

I want to live here like an ordinary person. What should I do?

The inaugural beneficiaries of the fund highlight the urgent need for such support. Marina, a 24-year-old, has been suffering from severe malnutrition and anemia, surviving on only one meal a day due to a lack of funds. Her struggles are compounded by her status as an undocumented migrant, which prevented her from obtaining a national ID number, thus barring her from simple activities like purchasing concert tickets. This lack of identity has fueled her ongoing battle with depression since her teenage years.

“

My depression worsened after I obtained a visa.

Marina's story is intertwined with Kang Tae-wan's. She was featured in a documentary about his life, identified as 'Nana.' Born in South Korea to Mongolian parents, she became aware of her undocumented status in elementary school while interpreting for her hearing and speech-impaired parents. Despite facing immense challenges, including the inability to take the college entrance exam due to her status, she actively pursued education and was recognized by the National Human Rights Commission for the lack of a residency status system for long-term undocumented children.

“

I became more depressed after getting a visa and coming out into society than when I was anxious about my residency status.

The fund's launch comes at a critical time, as systemic delays in policy implementation have left many young migrants in precarious situations. Marina's experience exemplifies this: after obtaining a temporary visa, she faced further hardship when her parents were deported, leaving her isolated and unable to work or study effectively due to strict visa regulations for international students. The 'Trustworthy Kang Tae-wan Fund' stepped in to cover her overdue bills and provide living expenses, offering a lifeline to Marina and others facing similar dire circumstances.

“

Tae-wan's unfortunate death, despite his best efforts not to be defeated by reality, is heartbreaking.