Incheon: Samsung Electronics Co. announced the inauguration of its 16th center under the "Stepping Stone of Hope" outreach program, marking the completion of a nationwide network dedicated to aiding teenagers in their transition to independent living.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the company hosted an opening ceremony for the new center in Incheon, just west of Seoul. The event also celebrated the 10th anniversary of the community outreach program, emphasizing its achievements and setting a vision for the next decade.

Launched in 2015, the Stepping Stone of Hope initiative is tailored to support young adults as they leave child welfare facilities at 18. The program offers stable housing and assists in building economic self-reliance through job training and employment readiness support.

Over the past ten years, Samsung Electronics has established 16 centers across 13 regions nationwide, providing assistance to a total of 54,000 individuals.

Park Seung-hee, president and head of corporate relations at Samsung Electronics, stated, "Self-reliance is achieved when the potential of young people is combined with practical support for housing, education, and employment, along with strong backing from their community. Stepping Stone of Hope has been creating this change."