Ulsan Metropolitan City announced that it has officially launched a new early childhood character education initiative titled “Ulsan Children: Building Eight Good Character Habits” starting January 5. The program is designed to help young children develop positive character traits through short, consistent daily activities conducted both at childcare centers and at home.
The initiative is based on the understanding that values and habits formed during early childhood tend to continue into adulthood. Under the guiding principle of “Ten minutes a day at childcare centers and home to build character habits,” the city aims to integrate character education naturally into children’s daily routines rather than relying on long or formal instruction.
The program is implemented in accordance with Korea’s Character Education Promotion Act. Ulsan City has developed posters and character cards centered on eight core virtues outlined in the law: courtesy, filial respect, honesty, responsibility, respect, consideration, communication, and cooperation. These materials have been distributed to all childcare centers across the city to support daily character education activities for young children.
 [코리안투데이] An infographic introducing Ulsan’s “Eight Good Character Habits” program that encourages young children to build positive character through daily practice at childcare centers and at home. © 정소영 기자 |
Beyond distributing educational materials, the city has also introduced measures to encourage broader participation. Childcare centers that actively implement the program will receive certification as “Character Education Practice Childcare Centers,” along with official signage recognizing their commitment. This approach is intended to promote voluntary participation while ensuring the program’s continuity and effectiveness at the institutional level.
A key feature of the initiative is the close linkage between childcare centers and families. Activities are designed so that lessons learned at childcare centers can be reinforced at home, with an emphasis on communication with parents and practical, family-friendly activities. Ulsan City expects this integrated approach to ensure that character education becomes a natural part of children’s everyday lives.
An official from Ulsan City stated, “Small habits formed in early childhood can shape a person’s character for a lifetime. By encouraging both childcare centers and families to participate together, we aim to support all young children in Ulsan as they grow into responsible and well-rounded members of society.”
Rather than focusing on short-term outcomes, the initiative places emphasis on long-term social value. Ulsan City plans to continue developing a range of early childhood education policies that foster character development and to promote a culture of character education throughout the local community.
[ By Soyoung Jeong | Ulsan Gangbuk | ulsangangbuk@thekoreantoday.com ]
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