Embracing the Spirit of Korean New Year: A Heartwarming Tteokguk Sharing Event
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| On 12th February, volunteers from the Namdong Branch and seniors eat tteokguk (rice cake soup) together at the Manbu Senior Centre in Namdong district, Incheon |
Tteokguk, or rice cake soup, is a quintessential dish enjoyed during Seollal (Lunar New Year) in Korea. Eating a bowl of tteokguk symbolises gaining a year in age, as well as starting the New Year with a clean slate. The thinly sliced rice cakes, resembling coins, signify wealth and prosperity, while the broth's clarity represents purity and fresh beginnings. Families traditionally gather to share this meal, expressing gratitude and setting intentions for the year ahead.
Therefore, the act of sharing tteokguk with others carries a profound cultural meaning, representing the wish for communal harmony and blessings for all. This tradition recently served as the foundation for the Tteokguk Sharing Event, ensuring that even those in difficult circumstances could partake in the joy of Seollal.
On 12th February, a special event warmed the hearts of many in Namdong, Incheon. The “Tteokguk Sharing Volunteer Service” brought together volunteers and members of the local community to celebrate Seollal, the Korean Lunar New Year, with love and generosity. Hosted by the Namdong Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group, the Tteokguk Sharing Volunteer Service served senior citizens at the Manbu Seniors Centre with warm tteokguk, which they had lovingly prepared, and provided companionship. Around 10 dedicated volunteers offered their time and support.
The Tteokguk Sharing Event not only provided meals but also created an atmosphere of love and unity. Participants enjoyed their tteokguk together, sharing smiles and stories that transcended barriers. In doing so, they demonstrated that Seollal is not just about celebrating with family but also about extending that familial love to the broader community.
A senior citizen who was treated to tteokguk said, “Eating warm tteokguk with neighbours really puts me in the holiday spirit,” and “I am grateful and look forward to it because they always provide winter service and are always the first to help when needed.”
A representative of the Namdong branch explained that the tteokguk sharing was planned not only as a meal service, but as an opportunity for emotional exchange with seniors. The representative added that the branch intends to continue organising activities that allow for regular interaction with older residents in the area.
Meanwhile, Manbu Village, where Manbu Senior Centre is located, has maintained a steady relationship with the Namdong Branch through activities such as mural painting, summer fan cleaning, and winter cold weather service. Moreover, the community maintains a close relationship with the senior residents of Mansu 3-neighbourhood through regular monthly hair and beauty services at the Manwol Shelter.
By combining food preparation, traditional activities, and personal interaction, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Namdong Branch's New Year event reflected a people-centred approach to community care focused on continuity and respect.
Source: https://vo.la/ttQbJpj
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