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| 4) Social Issues | 67

access to information. In addition, policies to strengthen regional digital infrastructure are needed.
Infrastructure improvements such as the installation of public Wi-Fi are required so that residents in rural
areas can use the same level of Internet services as in large cities. In addition, running programs that
provide digital devices free of charge by public institutions such as schools, public libraries, and community
centers can contribute to narrowing the digital gap between regions.
Expansion of digital and technological education is also important. There is a need to prepare free
education programs for the elderly and those who lack a
history with digital devices, and through this help them
learn how to use digital devices and basic internet skills.
Such education can alleviate the problem of alienation
by not only narrowing the digital gap, but also increasing
social participation and access to information.
Finally, companies should expand their activities that
can contribute to closing the digital gap. Companies can
fulfill their social responsibilities by providing the support
they need to increase access to digital technology, or by
running programs for the digital underprivileged. These
activities can contribute to reducing social inequality in
the long run, as well as improving corporate image.

Conclusion

The digital gap is acting as a factor that deepens economic and social inequality beyond just technological
problems. There is a need for a digital inclusion policy that allows everyone to enjoy the benefits of
digital technology evenly, and through this, we need to prevent social alienation and move toward social
integration. To this end, the government, businesses, and local communities must cooperate to narrow the
digital gap and increase access to information and the ability to use digital technology. Resolving the digital
gap and solving the problem of social alienation are, after all, the way to a better society and important
tasks for everyone to accomplish together.

Son YunJung (1-3)
Yjstellasun@naver.com