The National Human Rights Commission of Korea has proposed amendments to the legal definition of 'homeless youths' and recommends ensuring that these individuals can access youth shelters without requiring consent from their guardians. This initiative aims to uphold their housing rights, as current regulations often exclude such youths from receiving support based on the circumstances of their estrangement from guardians. In a notification to key government ministers, including those from the ministries of gender equality and family, land, infrastructure, and transport, and health and welfare, the Commission emphasized the need for policies that guarantee the right to adequate housing for all citizens under Article 35 of the Constitution.

The Commission particularly pointed out the necessity to broaden the definition of 'homeless youths' to include those who voluntarily choose to live outside their homes. It also highlighted the importance of ensuring that these youths do not need guardian consent to enter youth shelters. The recommendations include expanding the number of youth shelters and support centers and developing gender-sensitive housing support measures to prevent sexual violence and exploitation, especially for homeless female youths.

Furthermore, the Commission urged the Minister of Health and Welfare to amend relevant laws to support youths over the age of 15 who leave shelters mid-way, ensuring their eligibility for self-reliance support. It also advised reforms to current practices that notify guardians of youths' shelter residence, emphasizing the need to respect the youths' decisions against such notifications amid situations like domestic violence. Lastly, the Commission called on the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport to set legal foundations enabling sufficient housing support for homeless youths, particularly highlighting that those under 19 should have access to public rental housing.