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| Participation in a small group at Shincheonji Gwacheon Church |
Social isolation among young people has emerged as a growing concern in South Korea. A report by the Korea Economic Association and the Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs estimated that approximately 538,000 young adults aged 19–34 were socially reclusive in 2024, more than double the 244,000 recorded in 2022. The report also estimated the annual social and economic costs of prolonged isolation at more than KRW 5.3 trillion.
In response, Shincheonji Church of Jesus, John Tribe (Gwacheon Church) has developed interest-based small groups where young adults can form connections through shared hobbies and activities.
Creating Safe Spaces Through Shared Interests
Rather than relying on formal or rigid structures, Gwacheon Church offers small groups focused on activities such as photography, dance, keychain making, outdoor trips and sports. The approach allows participants to develop relationships gradually in a comfortable environment.
For 29-year-old Ye-ji Lee, the groups provided encouragement during a difficult period of career uncertainty and social anxiety.
“When I blamed myself and built walls around myself, the warmth and support of my small-group members gave me great strength,” she said. “With encouragement and advice from mentors, I gradually overcame my fear of communicating with others.”
From Receiving Support to Supporting Others
For some participants, the experience has developed into a desire to contribute to others.
Tae-hee Lee, 28, experienced social isolation after graduating from secondary school, partly due to difficult working conditions and experiences of social prejudice. Taking on a leadership role within a small group helped him develop stronger relationships and a greater sense of purpose.
“Isolation made my thoughts and actions focused mainly on myself,” Lee said. “Through interacting with the group, I learned the value of considering others, and that gradually developed into leadership. The experience helped me become someone who could contribute to society.”
Today, Lee volunteers in his community, teaching smartphone skills to senior citizens and participating in environmental cleanups.
Building Connections Through Community
A representative of Shincheonji Gwacheon Church said the role of religion should extend beyond numerical growth to helping people build meaningful connections with society.
Through shared interests, mutual support and community participation, the small-group initiative aims to provide young adults experiencing isolation with opportunities to reconnect, develop confidence and contribute to their communities.
Source: https://vo.la/jAJmaz5
