The Muju Youth Participation Committee is gaining attention as a platform for communication among local youth and a base for policy participation.

According to Muju County, the Youth Participation Committee has been operating since 2009 in accordance with Article 5-2 of the Youth Basic Law, collecting the opinions of youth in Muju County on policies and engaging in activities to expand policy participation. The committee is composed of middle and high school students (aged 14-18) in the local area, with 17 members currently active.

Starting with a meeting in April this year, the members have interacted with youth self-governing bodies in other areas and participated in events such as the Jeollabuk-do Youth Expo. They also volunteered at booths during the Muju Youth Culture Festival event called 'Dream.'

At a meeting organized by the Muju Youth Training Center on the 23rd, the members pointed out safety blind spots around schools and residential areas, as well as a lack of awareness of non-smoking zones. They proposed a project for creating safe zones for youth and improving non-smoking areas, garnering attention. It was reported that 14 proposals made by the committee, such as the enactment of regulations for the Youth Participation Committee, have been reflected in actual youth policies.

Jeong Woo-chan, a member from Muju Middle School 2, said, "Through the committee activities, I have come to think more about Muju and youth themselves," adding, "I will take responsibility to ensure that policies supporting healthy growth, safety, and challenges towards dreams for youth are realized."

Hwang In-hong, the head of Muju County, stated, "The proposals made by the committee are being reviewed by relevant departments following procedures," and expressed, "We will take care of it as an important asset in making the region healthy." He further added, "We will support youth in enhancing their participation capabilities through various experiences."