On 14th March, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Eastern Seoul Branch launched a wildfire prevention campaign at the entrance of Mount Surak hiking trail, focusing on citizen participation and practical awareness.

The campaign was organised in response to increased wildfire risks during Korea’s dry winter season and ahead of spring, when forest fire incidents historically rise. Their goal was simple but powerful: remind people that “Prevention is the best protection” when it comes to wildfires.

Armed with informative flyers and signs, volunteers spoke with more than 250 hikers and citizens, sharing safety tips and what to do in case of a fire. Their message hit home—especially after recent wildfires have shown how quickly centuries-old forests can vanish in minutes due to a single careless act.

According to Korea’s Forest Service, hundreds of wildfires have occurred throughout South Korea over the past five years. The most common causes? Human negligence—campfires, burning litter, and even cigarette butts. That’s why awareness campaigns like this matter so much.

For some participants, this wasn’t just a good deeds—it was personal:

“I feel the preciousness of nature while climbing the mountain every day,” said Sun-im Han (84, female, Nowon District), a frequent hiker on Mt. Surak, and added, “I was impressed by the sight of citizens being informed about forest fire prevention directly like this.”

After the campaign, the volunteers didn’t stop with informing. They cleaned nearby walking trails and parks, collecting litter and helping restore the environment as part of their message: prevention isn’t just about stopping fire—it’s about caring for nature every day.

A church representative shared, “The awareness that forest fire prevention is not the role of a specific organisation alone but the responsibility of all citizens is gradually spreading. We will continue our activities to protect a safe forest environment through practical actions in our daily lives.”

In a time when natural disasters are on the rise, it’s encouraging to see local groups take meaningful action. Shincheonji Volunteer Group Eastern Seoul wildfire prevention campaign is a reminder that simple efforts—like handing out flyers, picking up litter, and having honest conversations—can go a long way in protecting our shared future.