The 23rd WeLoveU Concert
The WeLoveU Choir: Songs of Hope Reaching the Global Village
Music has an extraordinary ability to bridge distances and connect hearts. On November 9, that power was on full display at the 23rd WeLoveU Concert, held in the first-floor exhibition hall of Songdo Convensia in Incheon, South Korea. Participants gathered in harmony to share songs of love, hope, and comfort with communities around the world.
This year’s concert was organized to support families suffering from worsening climate disasters—floods, droughts, wildfires, and landslides—and to extend warm aid to vulnerable groups facing extreme temperatures caused by the escalating climate crisis.
Hosted by the International WeLoveU Foundation (hereinafter referred to as “WeLoveU”), the event was supported by Korea’s Ministry of Health and Welfare, Seoul Metropolitan City, the Korean NPO Alliance for the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, and the Korea Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect. Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah, board members, dignitaries from political and cultural sectors, and diplomats from Ecuador, Mongolia, and Peru joined approximately 13,000 members and citizens in attendance.
Participants from across Korea—including Seoul, Seongnam, Sokcho, and Daejeon—made their way to Incheon to share encouragement through music. Three hours before the opening, long lines had already formed at every entrance of Songdo Convensia. Amid the deep hues of autumn, attendees took photos and exchanged warm conversations as they awaited the performance.
In her opening remarks, Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah expressed deep gratitude for the continued volunteer efforts of members around the world:
“Your volunteer work has become one beautiful piece of music. Like instruments performing different parts in harmony, your acts of service have created a melody of hope and a chord of courage. . . . The music we share today will not remain within this hall—it will travel wherever hearts can reach and winds can carry, becoming a song that revives lives across the world. WeLoveU will continue to take the lead in conveying hope and courage to people around the world.”
Diplomatic guests also delivered congratulatory messages. H.E. Patricio Esteban Troya Suárez, Ambassador of Ecuador to the Republic of Korea, praised WeLoveU’s humanitarian work: “WeLoveU has played a key role in strengthening cooperation between Korea and Ecuador. We are sincerely grateful for its ongoing support—such as relief for wildfire victims—and we look forward to continued collaboration.”
Former Philippine Senator Cynthia Aguilar Villar, Managing Director of the Villar Foundation, who previously joined WeLoveU’s 21st New Life Family Walkathon in the Philippines, shared her admiration: “WeLoveU is an organization I deeply respect and wholeheartedly support. Since 2001, it has carried out humanitarian and well-being activities around the world, and I express my highest admiration.”
The ceremony reached a highlight as the donation board was unveiled to enthusiastic applause. WeLoveU announced a contribution of KRW 376 million (approx. USD 263,000) to support ten countries affected by climate disasters—Nepal, the Philippines, Thailand, Mongolia, Mozambique, South Africa, Kenya, Peru, Ecuador, and Brazil.
The donation will also assist:
- 120 vulnerable households in Korea (60 each in Seoul and Incheon)
- Group homes under the Korea Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect
- A child in Mongolia battling rare and incurable diseases
The second part of the concert began with an energetic performance by the WeLoveU Children’s Choir, followed by captivating stages from celebrated artists Kim Jong-hwan, Lia Kim, Kim Sung-hwan, Jeong Su-ra, popera group La Classé, soprano Kang Min-seong, and Jeong Chan-hee.
Their heartfelt lyrics resonated deeply:
“Having someone by my side gives me peace. It reminds me how precious the ordinary is.”
— Lia Kim, “The Great Promise”
“As I walk holding your hand, everything in the world looks beautiful.”
— Jeong Su-ra, “Ecstasy”
Singer Kim Jong-hwan reflected on the meaning of the concert, saying: “Every performance has its own meaning, but the WeLoveU Concert is the most joyful and fulfilling of all. Watching members help those in need around the world reminds me of the beauty of compassion.” Singer Jeong Su-ra, who performed at the WeLoveU concert for the fifth time, shared her heartfelt thoughts: “I came with excitement because I deeply relate to the purpose of this concert—helping others rather than seeking personal joy. I sincerely wish for happiness to reach all our neighbors around the world.”
Diplomatic guests also expressed their appreciation for WeLoveU’s ongoing global initiatives. Ms. Isatu Sema Aisha, Charge d’Affaires ad interim / Minister Plenipotentiary, Embassy of the Republic of Sierra Leone in Seoul, Korea, remarked: “Climate change has brought numerous disasters to Sierra Leone. I truly appreciate WeLoveU’s timely efforts to help nations suffering from climate crises and hope these efforts will continue for future generations.”
Colonel Asif Mehmood, Defence Attaché, Embassy of Pakistan in Seoul, Korea, added: “This event serves as a meaningful platform for global cooperation. I hope that, beyond government-level exchanges, organizations like WeLoveU will continue to unite people to extend help where it is needed most.”
Audience members, moved by the performances and messages, expressed their hopes that the love and encouragement shared through the concert would resonate across the world. Oh Hye-in, a volunteer from Uijeongbu, shared a personal story: “When I was a student, my home was destroyed in a fire, and my classmates and teachers came to help. I realized then how powerful someone’s support can be in times of hardship. That’s why I volunteer whenever I can.” Kang Tae-woo, a WeLoveU member from Suwon, who attended with his middle-school son, reflected on the importance of environmental awareness: “We must pass on a clean and healthy natural environment to future generations. I truly appreciate this concert’s purpose of raising awareness and encouraging all generations to unite in addressing the climate crisis.”
“Dear guests and members, the love you have given throughout the year will never fade. That love will resound again in today’s music and shine anew with the first dawn of the coming year.”
As Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah expressed, WeLoveU will continue to care for society and its neighbors with a heart that hopes no one is left behind—carrying forward the spirit of sharing, compassion, and unity throughout the global community.
Ensuring the Right to Mobility, Opening a Path of People
In Peru, many people live with significant mobility limitations,
and a large number of them lack proper assistive devices.
The situation is even more challenging in suburban and mountains regions,
where accessibility is lower and financial barriers higher,
resulting in far fewer mobility aids compared with urban areas.
Mobility devices are essential for maintaining daily life and staying connected
to society, yet many obstacles still prevent equal access for all.
To help protect the mobility rights of neighbors who need courage
even to take a single step, the International WeLoveU Foundation
(hereinafter referred to as “WeLoveU”) partnered with the Ministry
of Women and Vulnerable Populations (MIMP) to provide wheelchairs
to households with persons with physical disabilities.
Expected Outcomes
Improved Mobility
Travel time will be reduced, and physical fatigue will decrease through the use of wheelchairs.
Increased Social and Emotional Participation
Opportunities to go outside and participate in social activities will expand, helping reduce isolation.
Enhanced Independence
As individuals gain mobility, families will experience reduced economic strain and less daily caregiving pressure.
On October 30, a donation ceremony was held at Programa Integral Nacional
para el Bienestar Familiar (INABIF), an agency under MIMP in Lima.
A total of 115 participants—including persons with disabilities and
their families, the Minister and Vice Minister of MIMP, representatives
from related institutions, and members of WeLoveU—
gathered to celebrate the beginning of a new journey for the beneficiaries.
A warm, uplifting mood filled the venue as participants exchanged
bright smiles. Among the beneficiaries and their families,
there was a mix of excitement and relief.
Sign language interpretation was provided throughout the ceremony.
WeLoveU members also assisted beneficiaries
in test-driving the wheelchairs to ensure safe and comfortable use.
One elderly beneficiary shared,
“I have struggled with mobility due to polio, but now I can go to work
on my own and even take care of household tasks.
You have given us independence
and a chance for a better life,” expressing gratitude to WeLoveU.
Aleida Karina Chacón Olivos, President of the Asociación
Los Embajadores de Buena Voluntad,
an organization advocating for disability rights and mobility support, said,
“Independence and mobility mean everything to us.
On behalf of the disability community,
I thank WeLoveU for protecting these essential rights.”
Sandra Gutiérrez Cuba, Minister of MIMP, added,
“This is excellent work for persons with disabilities.
Efforts like this will improve their quality of life.”
After the ceremony, WeLoveU members visited the homes
of those who were unable to attend, personally delivering the wheelchairs
and helping recipients get accustomed to using them. They hoped
the support would mark a fresh beginning toward a better quality of life.
A mother caring for her 20-year-old son with a disability expressed her gratitude,
saying, “As my son grew and became bigger, caregiving became harder.
I am truly thankful for this wheelchair.”
The wheelchairs delivered that day were distributed
through local governments across Peru to community members in need.
On November 7, WeLoveU members were invited to attend
another donation ceremony held at the Regional Government of Callao.
The Regional Governor, government officials, and members of Congress
joined the event and expressed their sincere appreciation
for the improvement in residents’ quality of life.
Ciro Ronald Castillo Rojo Salas, Governor of the Callao Region, said,
“Today we received 43 wheelchairs.
This support benefits not only the recipients but also their entire families.”
He expressed his gratitude to Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah of WeLoveU.
This wheelchair donation has brought renewed vitality
to neighbors who have lived with mobility challenges for many years.
WeLoveU will continue expanding assistance for people with limited mobility,
striving to create a world where everyone can move freely
and explore life with hope.
Sharing the Warmth of Chuseok With Our Neighbors 2025
Chuseok is a time when families gather, share laughter, and enjoy
festive meals together. However, some neighbors spend the holiday alone
or are unable to fully experience its abundance due to various circumstances.
Each year, the International WeLoveU Foundation carries out
the “Sharing the Warmth of Chuseok With Our Neighbors” campaign
so that everyone can enjoy a warm and meaningful holiday.
This year, WeLoveU distributed food packages to 1,600 socially vulnerable
and welfare-underserved households, including seniors living alone
and multicultural families, through 60 municipal offices nationwide.
The packages contained 17 varieties of nutritious items, from ready-to-eat meals
such as bulgogi mushroom rice, bone broth soup, and chicken porridge,
to everyday staples like cooking oil and flour.
On September 19, WeLoveU also partnered with the Seoul Metropolitan
Government to donate an additional 100 food packages
to the Seoul Station Community Counseling Center,
supporting residents in the area ahead of the holiday.
These packages will be distributed
to individuals in vulnerable housing situations
through the center’s “Onki Storage” companion, a sharing program.
Onki (Warmth) Storage:
A community pantry that helps provide food and daily supplies
to vulnerable residents through a membership-based point system.
Onki Storage is a community space where vulnerable residents can use points
accumulated on their membership cards to obtain food and daily necessities.
Equipped with refrigeration and freezer facilities as well as a comfortable rest area,
it provides neighbors in need with a sense of comfort and stability in their daily lives.
WeLoveU Chairman of the Board Kim Joong-rak stated,
“We’re grateful for the opportunity to support neighbors facing social
and economic challenges. We will continue to communicate and collaborate
with local communities so that everyone can live safely and happily.
We hope all families enjoy a healthy and abundant holiday.”
Jeong Jae-yeop, Self-Sufficiency Support Team Leader
at the Seoul Metropolitan Government, shared,
“WeLoveU recently supported residents of the Namdaemun single-room district,
and now they’ve come again to help those living near Seoul Station
ahead of the holiday. Their support has been a great help.”
Yoo Ho-yeon, Director of the Seoul Station Community Counseling Center, added,
“These food packages will be a meaningful Chuseok gift
for residents of single-room districts
who may have nowhere to go during the long holiday.”
Local government officials across the nation
expressed their gratitude for WeLoveU’s heartfelt support.
Lee Nam-hee, Head of Garak 2-dong in Songpa-gu, Seoul, remarked,
“We sincerely thank Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah and the WeLoveU members
for extending a mother’s warmheartedness
to neighbors in need through their continuous acts of kindness.”
Lee Won-seop, Acting Head of Songjeong-dong in Buk-gu, Ulsan, commented,
“Thank you for this warm sharing and love for low-income
and vulnerable residents in our community.”
No Yu-yeong, Head of Wonmi 1-dong in Bucheon, Gyeonggi Province, said,
“Thank you for helping spread a culture
of sharing in our community ahead of Chuseok.
We will deliver the donated items with care to those in need.”
WeLoveU volunteers expressed their hope that everyone would enjoy a warm
and abundant holiday free from worry and loneliness.
Looking ahead, WeLoveU will continue to practice neighborly love
through tailored welfare services, helping to build a world
where everyone can live together in harmony.
Together With Care: Supporting Housing Settlement for Climate-Vulnerable Households
In early July, members of the International WeLoveU Foundation
(hereinafter referred to as WeLoveU) visited areas around Seoul Station
and Namdaemun, where substandard housing is densely concentrated.
Even in the early morning, the air inside the narrow alleys was already stifling.
Inside the cramped rooms, where ventilation and insulation were lacking,
damp air lingered and the outside heat seeped in.
Many of these rooms are barely large enough for one person to lie down,
crowded with worn furniture, clothes, and daily necessities
bearing the marks of age. Most of the residents are middle-aged or elderly,
and many live alone. With the intensifying heat and cold brought on
by the climate crisis, life here is leaving body and mind exhausted.
To improve the housing environment of climate-vulnerable citizens
and revitalize the city, Seoul Municipality has been carrying out various
redevelopment and reconstruction projects.
The Namdaemun-ro 5-ga area near Seoul Station was also designated
as a redevelopment district (Yangdong Districts 11 and 12).
To ease the economic burden on residents,
the Municipality decided to building public rental apartments nearby first,
relocate the residents, and then proceed with redevelopment.
The new public rental apartments for 182 households
were equipped with heating and cooling systems,
along with improved insulation and ventilation system,
to help residents withstand scorching summers and harsh winters.
for Climate-Vulnerable Households
Living convenience has improved and sense of stability has been enhanced.
Vulnerability to extreme heat and cold has been reduced, resulting in fewer health risks and lower medical expenses.
Community support and improved access to infrastructure help reduce social isolation, promote self-reliance, and encourage greater community participation.
Settlement Support for Climate-Vulnerable Households
In small rooms, when belongings are piled up, the flow of air is blocked,
making the heat and cold even harder to bear. Storage cabinets serve
as a “breath of space,” helping free up narrow living areas.
To ensure residents could settle comfortably into their new homes,
WeLoveU partnered with Seoul Municipality
to provide customized storage cabinets for all 182 households.
🔨 Installation of Storage Cabinets 🔨
From August 27 to 29—just about two weeks before residents moved in
—storage cabinets were installed in every unit of the new
public rental apartments. WeLoveU members also joined in,
supporting the residents’ relocation and settlement.
🤝 Handover Ceremony for Storage Cabinets 🤝
On August 28, a handover ceremony was held at Seoul City Hall
to mark the provision of storage cabinets for 182 households.
The event was attended by WeLoveU’s Board Chairman and Secretary-General,
Seoul’s Welfare Planning Director, and the Director of the Namdaemun
Counseling Center. They celebrated that residents could now look forward
to a more comfortable environment.
Kim Joong-rak, WeLoveU Board Chairman, said, “As the climate crisis worsens,
the difficulties faced by vulnerable people grow even greater.
We will continue to provide material, emotional, and social support
so that marginalized neighbors can live safely in the face of global challenges.”
Kim Jae-jin, Seoul Municipality’s Welfare Planning Director,
“We will continue our efforts
to improve housing conditions for vulnerable groups.”
Meanwhile, Park Jong-tae, Director of the Seoul Metropolitan Namdaemun
Counseling Center, welcomed the initiative, saying,
“A tidy storage space will be a great help
for residents who are about to move in.”
A New Home, a Hopeful Tomorrow
On September 10, the area surrounding the new public rental apartments
was filled with activity. WeLoveU members came together to assist neighbors
with their relocation—carrying boxes, arranging belongings,
and offering warm wishes for a fresh start in their new homes.
Volunteers also explained how to use appliances such as air conditioners,
washing machines, intercoms, and digital door locks. Moved by their support,
one elderly resident said, “I wonder if I really deserve to live in such a nice home.
Now I can spend summers cool and winters warm.”
Recalling her late husband, who had endured years of hardship,
she wiped away tears and added,
“Thanks to your help, I will hold on to hope and live happily.”
Seoul Municipality officials visited the site as well, thanking the volunteers
for their efforts and expressing support for the residents’ smooth settlement.
Choi Jin-hyung, a team leader at the Namdaemun Counseling Center,
Said to the volunteers, “Once the relocation of residents is complete,
this area will be permanently closed. You are taking part in both the end
and the beginning of Namdaemun’s community.”
WeLoveU members reflected on the moment, taking in the sight
of Namdaemun’s shanty housing soon to vanish into history. Many said
they felt rewarded to share in both its closing chapter and its new beginning.
For residents who had endured years of hardship in sweltering heat and bitter cold,
the new homes—with proper insulation, heating, and cooling
—promise not only shelter, but also comfort and dignity.
WeLoveU will continue to carry out diverse projects worldwide
to help communities adapt to the climate crisis.
WeLoveU hopes that these new homes
will brighten the future of the residents.
❤
The Role of Women for a Better Future
In the United States, the month of March is designated as
“Women’s History Month” to celebrate “International Women’s Day”
on March 8. Throughout the month, various events take place across the
country to highlight the vital roles and achievements of women.
On March 10, International WeLoveU Foundation’s female members
in New York visited the Nasdaq MarketSite located in Times Square.
Together with members of Women in Nasdaq (WIN),
they rang the opening bell to commemorate Women’s History Month.
Bryan Smith, Chief People Officer at Nasdaq, expressed his honor
in celebrating Women’s History Month and extended his appreciation
to everyone who supports and champions the advancement of women.
He also voiced his support for WeLoveU, stating that “WeLoveU volunteers
are leading positive change through kind acts and selfless service,”
and encouraged everyone present to take action in support of women.
Rebecca Parker, who attended as part of the WeLoveU delegation, remarked,
“We’re honored to share this meaningful moment together.
Women’s history is, in many ways, the history of mothers. A mother’s love
—the root of humanity—fosters peace, harmony, and cooperation.”
She emphasized that women must lead the world with love
and work together for the development of local communities.
At 9:30 a.m., as members of WeLoveU and WIN stood on stage,
Rebecca Parker rang the bell, and confetti rained down in celebration.
That day, WeLoveU members reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen
women’s empowerment and community development
by working with key institutions in society.
‘Women’s History Month Forum 2025’ for a Kinder World
On March 27, the “Women’s History Month Forum 2025 for a Kinder World”
was held at the One Madison building in Manhattan, New York.
The event carried special meaning as it was held near Madison Square Park,
the site of the first open-air women’s suffrage rally in 1907.
More than 160 attendees, including government officials, leaders in law,
medicine, and the arts, as well as WeLoveU members, gathered to discuss
women’s rights, their roles, and ways to enhance their capabilities,
contemplating a better future for women. The forum was divided
into three segments, each featuring panel discussions on different topics.
Part 1
🎯 Key Messages From Panelists
Growth Comes From Diverse Experiences
“Bold changes is the name of the game. And I would also say that the paths
aren’t as distinct as they may look on the outside. Every experience you have
will be something that will lead to something else
Inna Swinton, CEO of Match Girl Productions and comedian
Build Your Confidence
“I started an inbox and everyone should have that inbox.
Every time your manager or colleague says, ‘great job, amazing work on this,’
that was all in there. So I put together a nice little document.
When I went to my boss, it’s much easier to step into a room like you own it.”
Gabrielle Gambrell, CCO of Hachette Book Group
Build Sincere Relationships in Your Field
“When you go into it, go into it with an understanding of what you want to do
and similarly who’s in that space and make genuine relationships with them.”
Chanel Cathey, CEO of CJC Insights
Part 2
🎯 Key Messages From Panelists
Humility and a Learner’s Mindset Are Important
“You could know your craft, but be humble. You learn, someone teaches you,
and you teach. So I always try to be a student of life.”
Tania Kinsella, First Deputy Commissioner in the NYPD
Face Challenges Head-On
“So I approach it in a diplomatic way while confronting the issue
so that we can deal with it at hand and get over it. . . . Whether we like it or not, we have the same mission set and we have to get the job done.”
Chena Williams, Command Chief of the 166th Airlift Wing
Volunteerism Fosters Courage and Collaboration
“I’m just amazed at the work that’s happening through the program
(of WeLoveU). I think it’s an amazing opportunity for our students
to see themselves as volunteering where they can.”
Christine Mangino, President of Queensborough Community College
Part 3
🎯 Key Messages From Panelists
Be Faithful in Your Current Role
“I tell people around me, the most important job you have
is the one you have right now.
And you need to do that job really, really well.”
Annelise Eschmann, Managing Director at BlackRock
Leadership Begins With Preparation
“When I was going into court, I’m going to be prepared. And I think that’s the key.
And you already know in your head, they think that I don’t know what I’m doing
or they’re going to try and take. So you prepare for that.
How am I going to be better at it? And we are better at it.”
Hon. Kathie Davidson, Dean of the NY Judiciary
Celebrate Diversity
“I think we’re all unique and our differences should be celebrated.”
Olamide Ajibesin, Partner at KPMG US
Despite being unable to attend, Her Excellency Cecile La Grenade,
the Governor-General of Grenada, prepared a video message.
“I am pleased to address you today and to speak to the transformative work
and enduring legacy of women like Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah.”
Chanel Cathey, CEO of CJC Insights
“Being invited to speak today was an honor. This was my first WeLoveU event, and from the moment I entered, everyone welcomed me warmly. I immediately felt it would be a special day.
What touched me most is that WeLoveU is inspired by a mother’s love. I grew up surrounded by the love of my mother and grandparents. That love taught me the value of sincere communication and trust. Around the world, many suffer from disasters and hardships. WeLoveU shares the love of a mother with them. That spirit was truly reflected in today’s forum.
It’s not easy to gather people for a meaningful cause, but you’ve done it. Thank you for your work—it’s truly valuable.”
Chanel Cathey, CEO of CJC Insights
Christine Mangino, President of Queensborough Community College
“My main goal is to establish a women’s leadership center in our school to help faculty, staff, and students grow as leaders. WeLoveU’s work is phenomenal.
I’d love to offer students and faculty the opportunity to participate in your programs. Not just within our school, but also through external efforts to empower women.”
Christine Mangino, President of Queensborough Community College
Ariel Metayer, CEO of Luminous Labs
“It’s not enough to talk about women’s empowerment; we need to see it in action. And today, we saw just that. Listening to the stories of amazing female leaders reminded me that we, as women, lack nothing.
We can pioneer our own rights and blaze our own trails. Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah, the founder of WeLoveU, is a living role model. The best part was the sense of equality and open dialogue. Everyone at the event engaged in meaningful conversations. I’m honored to have participated in this meaningful event. Thank you.”
Ariel Metayer, CEO of Luminous Labs
Panels were set up throughout the venue to introduce WeLoveU’s
major projects such as the calming room and pollinator gardens,
drawing the attention of attendees. Many expressed their interest
in joining WeLoveU’s efforts to care for both humanity and the planet.
In celebration of Women’s History Month,
WeLoveU applauds all the women who have overcome adversity
and all the mothers who have devoted themselves to their children.
Moving forward, WeLoveU will continue to deliver comfort and joy
to our global family with the unwavering love of a mother.
Let’s envision a beautiful world shaped by the leadership of motherly love.