Korea Handball Federation & Busan Facilities Corporation Partner for Youth Mental Health Program
The Korea Handball Federation (KHF) and the Busan Facilities Corporation are collaborating on ‘Mind Pass,’ a social contribution program designed to support the mental well-being of young people. A recent event held on March 21st at the Gijang Gymnasium in Busan brought together approximately 100 elementary school students, active handball players, and professional mental health instructors for a day of communication through sports.1
Addressing Youth Mental Health Through Handball
The ‘Are You OK?’ initiative, sponsored by the Busan Facilities Corporation, aims to address issues like depression and bullying among youth by leveraging the positive impact of sports.1 The program provides a platform for young people to learn coping mechanisms and build resilience.
Program Components & Expert Guidance
The event featured sessions led by professionals from the Korea Stress Association, who guided students in understanding their emotional states and developing strategies for managing stress.1 Participants also engaged in cheerleading training with H League cheerleaders, fostering a sense of energy and camaraderie.
Professional Athletes Share Personal Experiences
A key component of the program involved appearances by professional handball players. Eunhee Ryu and Hyewon Lee, players for the Busan Facilities Corporation in the Shinhan SOL Bank 2025-2026 Handball H League, shared their personal journeys, including overcoming challenges and achieving their goals.1 Ryu Eun-hee emphasized the importance of sharing experiences and providing positive energy to young people.1
Positive Impact on Participants
Students who participated in the handball experience, despite initial apprehension, demonstrated enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. They formed connections with the athletes, who served as mentors. One student shared that the program helped them recognize the importance of expressing their feelings and that playing handball alleviated stress.1 Parents in attendance also expressed satisfaction with the event’s positive impact on their children.
Future Plans & Expansion
The KHF plans to expand the ‘Heart’s Pass’ program through continued collaboration with H-League handball clubs and local governments. An official from the KHF stated that the program aims to establish a model for sports-based social contribution initiatives that promote the healthy development of young people.1 The KHF highlighted the team-oriented nature of handball as a metaphor for the importance of communication and mutual support in overcoming mental health challenges.
Photo = Provided by Korea Handball Federation
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