South Korea Launches ‘Cheonmiji-kim’ Project to Reduce Suicide Deaths by 1,000 by 2026

The South Korean government has officially launched the ‘Cheonmiji-kim’ (Thousand Keeper) project, a nationwide initiative aimed at reducing suicide deaths by 1,000 by the conclude of 2026. The project was unveiled at a launch ceremony held on April 24, 2026, at Cheonggye Plaza in Seoul, where Prime Minister Kim Min-seok appointed life ambassadors and thousand keeper organizations to lead the effort.

The initiative responds to South Korea’s long-standing challenge of having the highest suicide rate among OECD member countries. According to the Ministry of Interior and Safety, the project brings together celebrities, influencers, businesses, religious groups, and civic organizations to expand suicide prevention efforts across society.

At the launch event, Prime Minister Kim Min-seok appointed 12 individuals as life ambassadors, including singer HYNN (Park Hye-won), actor Yang Dong-geun, comedian Nam Hee-seok, NCT’s Doyoung, rapper Mad Clown, monk Beomjeong, singer Kim Pil-seon, singer Kang Na-ra, singer Hye-seong Jeong, singer Jin-seong, band Highlight, and activist Heo Gyeong-gyeong. These ambassadors are tasked with spreading messages of hope and connection to combat isolation, which the Prime Minister identified as a core factor in suicide.

“Making sure that we and the people around us are not alone—that is the most critical and fundamental path to suicide prevention,” Prime Minister Kim said during the ceremony.

In addition to individual ambassadors, various institutions were designated as ‘thousand keeper organizations’ to implement targeted prevention programs. The Small and Medium Business Administration (Saengjinonggongdan) was appointed to focus on supporting small business owners, particularly men in their 50s, who face elevated suicide risk due to financial stress and business closures. Saengjinonggongdan plans to expand its ‘Hope Return Package Psychological Recovery Support’ program and offer on-site mental health screenings and counseling at public events.

The ‘Cheonmiji-kim’ project is led by the National Disaster and Safety Control Headquarters under the Ministry of Interior and Safety. It aligns with the government’s broader strategy to break the cycle of fluctuating suicide rates by achieving measurable, sustained reductions. Officials stated that reaching the goal of 1,000 fewer suicide deaths by 2026 would mark a turning point in national mental health efforts.

As of April 27, 2026, the project is active, with participating organizations beginning outreach and support programs nationwide. The initiative emphasizes community-based action, public awareness, and accessible mental health resources as key pillars of its prevention strategy.