As language continues to evolve through modern slang and abbreviations, communication between younger and older generations has become an increasingly important social issue.

To commemorate the 100th anniversary of Hangul Day (Korean Alphabet Day) in October 2026, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group organised interactive Nationwide Communication ON campaigns in several cities, including Bucheon, Gwangmyeong, and Pohang. The activities encouraged participants to reflect on the importance of kind words, empathy, and mutual understanding.

On 14th October, near Sangdong Station, the Bucheon Branch held an interactive event aimed at bridging communication gaps among grandparents, parents, and young people.

Participants tested their knowledge of youth slang through a quiz, while teenagers took part in challenges involving four-character idioms (saja-seongeo). At the Wish Communication Tree, participants attached notes expressing heartfelt apologies, appreciation, and encouragement that they had not previously put into words.

Seo-rin Jang, 15, from Bucheon, said, “Writing down feelings I usually keep to myself made me feel relieved. Today, I want to express my gratitude to my parents directly.”

Doo-seok Kang, 69, from Bucheon, shared, “Sometimes, it was difficult to communicate with my grandchildren because we use different expressions. Learning their slang today helped me realise that making an effort to understand the language young people use is the first step towards meaningful communication.”

On 12th October, near Cheolsan Station, the Gwangmyeong Branch invited residents to reflect on how everyday words can affect others emotionally.

Participants placed stickers beside encouraging expressions such as “Thank you” and “You did great.” They also wrote down hurtful words they had heard or used and symbolically discarded them in an “Emotional Trash Can” by tossing tennis balls into it.

To celebrate the legacy of King Sejong the Great, participants also made personalized Hangul keyrings using letter beads to spell positive words, including “Love” and “Compromise.”

Yu-chan Seol, 13, from Gwangmyeong, said, “Even when we encounter unfamiliar accents or expressions, making an effort to understand one another is important. I made a keyring with the word ‘Compromise’ to remind myself of the importance of thoughtful communication.”

On 9th October, at Yeongildae Beach, the Pohang Branch held a Kind and Beautiful Words Campaign, welcoming families, beachgoers, and international visitors.

Participants wrote heartfelt messages on a Gentle Words Heart Tree. In one touching moment, a young child placed a note reading “Mum, I love you” beside her mother. An international participant also wrote Korean consonants (ㄱㄴㄷㄹ) on a note and exchanged hand-heart gestures with volunteers.

Reflecting on the campaign, Nam-soon Kim, Vice Director of the Bucheon Branch, said, “Although the expressions we use may differ from one generation to another, communication begins with a willingness to understand each other. We hope this campaign encourages people to respect one another’s words and share warmth through active listening.”

By turning Hangul Day into an opportunity to promote empathy, connection, and thoughtful communication, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group continues its efforts to build more understanding and harmonious communities across South Korea.

Source:

- https://vo.la/kdtdXFF

- https://vo.la/Y0iECKM

- https://vo.la/ER2Fcc8