Estimation of the Long-term Cumulative Damages to the Inmates of Hyeongje-Welfare Institution: An Application of Propensity Score Matching Analysis

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to estimate the long-term cumulative damage of residency in the Hyeongje-Welfare Institution on inmates’ later life. To this end, a survey was conducted on 149 victims of the Hyeongje-Welfare Institution on their negative experiences in the institution and their current conditions. Long-term cumulative damage was estimated by comparing the inmates of Hyeongje-Welfare Institution with a comparison group with similar characteristics. A comparison group was matched from the Korea Welfare Panel Study by using the propensity score matching method. It was confirmed that most of the victims were forcibly taken to the Hyeongje-Welfare Institution and experienced abuse and forced labor. After discharge, a number of people were separated from their family and stopped education. These experiences had a negative impact on their later life, and it was confirmed that they were particularly vulnerable in psychological and economic aspects compared to the comparison group. Based on the findings, this study proposes compensation for damages, psychological and economic support, and establishment of victim support organizations.