North Gyeongsang Provincial Assembly holds 139th Youth Parliament session

The North Gyeongsang Provincial Assembly held its 139th Youth Parliament Classroom session Monday in the main chamber, with about 21 students from Gumi Sandong High School taking part.

First- and second-year students spent the day as provincial assembly members, drafting ordinance proposals and presenting their views.

During the debate segment, participants practiced making logical arguments for and against various positions, learning the importance of communication and cooperation in addressing community issues.

Students delivered three-minute open-floor speeches on topics including the dangers of illegal online gambling among youth and calls for prevention and rehabilitation measures, the liberalization of school dress codes to protect student individuality and autonomy, and the relaxation of restrictions on student makeup to allow greater personal expression.

The session then took up five agenda items in total, including a proposed ordinance supporting student digital literacy and responsible use of smart devices, and another on preventing illegal online gambling among youth and providing rehabilitation support.

Assembly member Yun Jong-ho, who represents Gumi, encouraged the students, saying, "I hope this experience inspires you to take an interest in your community, respect one another's perspectives, and grow into democratic citizens who move forward together."