Gong-gam is the only non-governmental organization in Korea with full-time lawyers devoted to protecting and promoting the human rights of minorities, the underprivileged and the most vulnerable people in society. It was founded in 2004 as an offshoot of the Beautiful Foundation, one of the most renowned charity organizations in Korea. Since then Gong-gam has grown from four to seven lawyers who are lawyers who are recognized as experts in the newly developing area of public interest law. Gong-gam is financed by the Public Interest Lawyers Fund established by the Beautiful Foundation.
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Goals
Gong-gam aims to develop and nurture a culture of human rights in Korea by protecting the rights of minorities and the underprivileged and by addressing systemic discrimination in all sectors of society. It also pursues social change through legal reform and strategic litigation, and promotes public interest lawyering and attracts public attention to the idea that law can be a strong and effective tool to protect rights and bring about positive changes in our society.
Activities
Gong-gam provides legal support and advice to other non-governmental and non-profit organizations on issues relation to the protection of human rights and the elimination of discrimination. The organization also provides legal education to NGOs and other public interest groups. Gong-gam advises and provides representation in strategic litigation that highlights structural injustices that lead to repeated violations of human rights and systemic discrimination against minorities and the under privileged. The organization works towards reforming Korea’s legal system and promoting specific public interest laws in order to foster an environment that is more responsive to the needs of minorities and the underprivileged. Lastly, Gong-gam develops programs for public interest lawyering and coordinates pro bono activities.