Shincheonji Volunteer Group's Gwangju Branch Honours Veterans Through Longevity Photo Project
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| A photographer participating in the "Wonderful Life" volunteer project, a photo project for veterans, is taking pictures of seniors who have served the nation of Korea. {A.I. modified} |
In present-day South Korea, where the contribution of Korean War veterans who dedicated their lives for the peace of the country is often overlooked, one organisation is working hard to widely publicise and record their noble deeds through memorial ceremonies, campaigns, and events—the Shincheonji Volunteer Group.
In 2025, the Gwangju Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group launched a nine-month-long Longevity Photo Project, in which the group visited 10 veterans' organisations 23 times to meet with a total of 567 veterans members and documented their life stories through photography and conversation. (The project, initially scheduled to end in November of last year, was extended to January of this year due to the passionate response from local veterans' organisations.)
Beyond mere photography, the experience provided veterans with an opportunity to document their decades of dedication and life through photography. The Gwangju branch provided a variety of programmes, including makeup, hand massages, and diffusers, exhibiting genuine service to these veterans.
Moreover, it provided a platform for youth to interact with veterans, promoting meaningful connections between generations.
The impact of the experience was deeply impressed upon the hearts of the veterans' organisations, with one member participating in the project saying:
“I've often felt left out, but seeing them remember us and offer heartfelt service has been a great comfort. While the conversations with the youth felt brief, knowing there are people who listen to my story has given me a reason to live.”
Looking ahead, the Gwangju Branch is committed to increasing the level of respect shown to veterans who have devoted themselves to the country, and is working to fulfil the shared desire for a world free from war. It is no exaggeration to say that the freedom and peace that South Korea enjoys today was gained through the sacrifices of these forefathers.
Meanwhile, since 2014, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group has held its 'Love Your Country, Share Peace' campaign every June (Patriot & Veterans Month), to commemorate the souls of the war veterans who died for the peace of Korea during the 6.25 War and to promote a world of peace without conflict.
Source: vo.la/g0sRim7
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