Society is rife with materialism and egoism. People seem to put oneself first before others. We are transforming into a selfish society. But not everyone is like that. There are some people who are naturally gifted volunteers who share what little they have and cannot ignore their neighbors in need. One of them is Korea Saemaul Undong Center in Goseong Director Jo Gwang-bok (CEO of Goseong Farm), who has been praised by those around him for practicing volunteerism in his daily life for decades.

Saemaul Undong spreads hope to neighbors

Jo says “Saemaul Undong was not just a national well-being movement; it focused the people’s capabilities and gave us the confidence that we can do it too. This experience generated an energy that whenever the country faces a crisis, such as the financial crisis, the people must come together, and this energy is what has made the country what it is today. All of this was possible because of the Saemaul Undong spirit, the basic principles of which are hard work, self-help, and cooperation, which began in the 1970s. It is now a community movement of hope to move beyond the industrialization and democratization of the past to achieve the advanced development of Korea in the 21st century. It is not just a slogan, but a practical philosophy of action, which is very appropriate in the spirit of development and solidarity.” 

Hard work, self-help and cooperation for Goseong

The Saemaul Undong Center in Goseong has more than 700 members and partners with cultural, educational, medical, and environmental organizations to promote life, peace, respect, and global community. Jo says “The most important element of Saemaul Undong is the village and the local people. It is a movement of all the local people and it is an ongoing movement, not just me alone, but neighbors loving and helping each other to build a beautiful and livable village together. This also means more to build a village and region that is materially and spiritually well-off for future generations, and a new country of harmony and prosperity.” The Goseong branch is actively engaged in projects to realize carbon neutrality, preserve the environment, and recycle resources. Members regularly collect marine garbage, protect wetlands, share rice, collect old clothes, give away vacation books, and share chilli paste. Jo says “Life is what you make of it. Our lives can be happy or unhappy depending on what we value and find satisfaction in. We will keep trying to benefit the region and the country through various activities.”