A Study on the Policy-Making Process of the Protective Childbirth System

The Protective Childbirth System (PCS), set to be implemented on July 19, 2024, had its legal basis suddenly established in 2023.This abrupt development makes it difficult to explain the decisionmaking process of the PCS using a linear inference-based policy decision model.Therefore, this study analyzes the decision-making process of the PCS using Kingdon's Policy Stream Framework, and the results are as follows: Firstly, various factors have shaped the problem stream related to the PCS.These include indicators of "children who could have been protected," the controversy surrounding baby boxes, the Suwon refrigerator case, and criticism of the 2011 revised Special Adoption Act.Additionally, changes in government and parliamentary terms, along with advocacy activities by interest groups supporting either adopted children or adoptive families, have all contributed to shaping the political stream.Also, the policy stream includes the government's announcement of the PCS policy, legislative proposals in the National Assembly, and the adjustment of viable alternatives.Secondly, the Suwon refrigerator case acted as a trigger for the introduction of the Birth Notification System.The passage of the birth notification bill served as another trigger, opening the policy window for the PCS.Based on these findings, the study emphasizes the importance of continuous and realistic policy alternatives to ensure children's best interests.