Established in 1960, Gyeongdong and Cheongnyangni markets in Dongdaemun, Seoul, are substantial, interconnected traditional markets, well-known for affordable agricultural products, fruits, and the country’s largest concentration of medicinal herbs.

On 1st February, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Dongdaemun branch (hereafter referred to as Dongdaemun branch) carried out its weekly street clean-up volunteer activity in the Gyeongdong and Cheongnyangni markets in Dongdaemun, Seoul.

This street clean-up initiative, which was launched in earnest in 2023, came about in response to market traders' concerns about heavy foot traffic and recurring waste-related complaints, particularly during the weekend period.

Since its launch, according to the Dongdaemun branch, 1826 people have participated in the volunteer activity, and approximately 8927 litres of waste have been amassed. This activity has been carried out every week for the last three years.

Market traders have cited noticeable improvements in this clean-up operation, with one market trader saying, “As cleaning is carried out consistently, traders’ awareness of environmental management has also increased.”

Meanwhile, this volunteer work is being carried out by people of all ages. A volunteer in his 20s living in the Cheongnyangni neighbourhood said, “It was difficult at first, but I felt it was meaningful because it helped the community.”

Source: https://www.job-post.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=207355