IGEE Proceedings

Articles

Analysis of the Correlation Between Health Status and Social Factors Among Korean Care Workers†: YeJin Yun, Yuna Kim, Miyeon Yoon, Sejin Park; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(2):114-132. Published online June 30, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.018

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Amid South Korea’s demographic crisis of a declining birth rate and a rapidly aging population, care work has become an essential yet undervalued sector. This study investigates the physical and mental health conditions of domestic care workers and explores how social and structural factors shape their labor experiences.Using a mixed-methods approach, the research integrates survey data from care workers (n=345) with in-depth interviews of nine individuals working in various care roles, including certified caregivers, disability support workers, childcare teachers, and domestic workers. Quantitative findings reveal strong correlations between job satisfaction and health outcomes. Higher job satisfaction was associated with lower scores on the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), indicating better physical and mental health. Significant disparities were found between care worker subcategories. Qualitative analysis further uncovered recurring themes such as emotional burden, social invisibility, dissatisfaction with compensation, and the absence of grievance mechanisms. Despite these challenges, many workers found meaning in their roles and relied on informal coping strategies such as peer support. This study underscores the urgency of addressing systemic issues in the care sector. The results call for policies that improve working conditions, recognize the social value of care work, and promote health equity. The findings contribute to advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3(Good Health), 5 (Gender Equality), and 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).; Summary

Empowering Single Parent Households: A Web Platform to Address Systematic Gaps in Welfare and Care Support†: Mingyu Park, Juhyeong Song, Jiwon Park; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(2):94-102. Published online June 19, 2025; 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.; Summary

The Current Status and Future of Yonsei University's Transition to a Carbon-Neutral Campus: Focused on Energy Consumption and Greenhouse Gas(GHG) Emission Characteristics: Haeyeong Choi; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(1):31-42. Published online February 27, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.009

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This study presents the current status of Yonsei University’s efforts toward carbon neutrality, with a focus on energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emission characteristics. Based on these findings, the study proposes directions and solutions for transitioning to a carbon-neutral campus from three perspectives: energy-saving strategies, changes in governence , educational and academic accessibility. Among them, the first one is the main focus of this study. On November 27, 2024, Yonsei University participated in the 'Joint Declaration Ceremony of Four Universities for the Sustainable Campus Initiative', held in Global Green Growth Institute(GGGI). In declaration, Yonsei University committed to the fulfillment of its environmental and social responsibilities and laying a foundation for addressing global challenges with Seoul National University, Korea University, and Postech. Analyzation was conducted from various perspectives: energy consumption, GHG emission, the correlations between the two, energy usage patterns by building types, and change in the pattern of energy usage over a year and a month. The following briefly presents three scenarios from different perspectives. Firstly, Buildings - especially STEM and research centers - and energy fixing facilities should be strictly managed to reduce energy. Plus, assessing energy consumption during non-peak hours, such as late at night and on weekends, is also needed to determine if it aligns with actual activities. Installing more energy-efficient heating/cooling systems. Secondly, enhancing governance structure dealing with this issue is suggested as the solutions. It can be efficiently conduced by leveraging its existing systems in a way to collaborate and discuss together. And they should annually publish carbon-neutral scenarios, ESG reports, and current status of renewable energy. They also should improve the transparancy and accuracy of publicly available energy-related information. Third, the study suggests increasing financial support for students and researchers in environmental-related departments. In addition, fostering interest among the broader Yonsei community and establishing a symbolic Carbon Neutrality Center are also proposed.; Summary

Revitalization and Awareness of Domestic and International Food Upcycling Industries^†: MinJoo Kim, JiHyun Choi; IGEE Proc. 2024;1(1):56-64. Published online September 30, 2024; 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.; Summary

Advancing SDG 16 through political participation on social media: A Comparative Study of Social Capital between South Korea and the United States: In Han Song, Kyeong Won Lee; IGEE Proc. 2024;1(1):32-49. Published online September 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2024.004

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The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG 16) aims to promote peaceful, inclusive societies and build effective, accountable institutions. Despite the growing influence of online media on political activities in the digital age and the increasing importance of achieving SDG 16 through political participation, there has been a lack of empirical research on this topic. This cross-cultural comparative study investigates the relationships among online communication, social capital, and political participation in South Korea and the United States. Online surveys were conducted in both countries, focusing on people's interest and trust in online communication, types of online social capital (bonding and bridging), and engagement in conventional and unconventional forms of political participation. Our findings underscore the pivotal role of social media as a platform for citizens to voice their political opinions and partake in democratic processes. We discovered a significant correlation between heightened interest and trust in online communication and increased political participation in both countries. This correlation is instrumental in achieving SDG 16.7, which advocates for inclusive and participatory decision-making. This study also highlights the nuanced differences in the relationship between online social capital and political participation. In South Korea, bridging online social capital is associated with unconventional political activities, whereas in the United States, bonding online social capital is linked to these forms of engagement. However, in both countries, participation in presidential elections is associated with bridging online social capital, providing a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics at play. The potential of social media to expand opportunities for citizens to participate in the political process and hold their governments accountable contributes to achieving SDG 16.6, which aims to develop effective, accountable, and transparent institutions. However, the study also serves as a reminder of the challenges posed by online polarization and misinformation. To fully realize the benefits of social media in promoting inclusive and sustainable social development, addressing these issues and fostering healthy online communities are essential.In conclusion, this study underscores the importance of promoting online communication and building robust online communities as key strategies for achieving SDG 16, engaging a wide range of stakeholders in the process of building a more equitable and sustainable future.; Summary

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