Save the World Global Forum 2025
Plastic—once celebrated as the “miracle of the 20th century” for its wide-ranging utility—has turned into a threat to our planet. What once brought convenience now returns as pollution, endangering Earth’s future. Plastic pollution is a pressing global issue we can no longer afford to ignore.
On June 5, 2025, in observance of World Environment Day, the International WeLoveU Foundation (hereinafter referred to as WeLoveU) held the Save the World Global Forum 2025 at The Suite Hall, The Suite Hotel Jeju, South Korea. Themed “The 5R + Rethink to End Plastic Pollution,” the forum gathered leaders from politics, academia, and civil society. Originally proposed by environmentalist Bea Johnson, the “5R” strategy—Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Rot—serve as a roadmap for change. WeLoveU enhanced this with “Rethink,” urging a deeper transformation of awareness to go beyond action and reframe our approach to the plastic crisis.
During the opening ceremony of the first session, Lee Seung-an, Secretary General of WeLoveU, remarked, “We are the last generation that can stop the climate crisis, and the first generation that can create a turning point of hope.” He continued, “We must go beyond slogans. Our goal is to find tangible solutions that bring about changes in mindset, behavior, policy, and institutions. I hope this forum becomes the starting point for combining knowledge with action, and collaboration with solidarity.”
In her address, Lee Kyeong-sim, Member of the Jeju Provincial Council, emphasized the social cooperation to end plastic pollution: “Environmental issues are not problems for tomorrow, but urgent matters we must tackle today. Today’s small changes will build great hope, and through our actions, we will achieve complete and clear recovery for the Earth” Kang So-bin, Vice President of the Jeju Chapter of the Environmental and Cultural Citizens’ Alliance, added, “I commend WeLoveU for its selfless service and practical efforts to build a warmer, more hopeful world. In your positive momentum, I see the seeds of a brighter future.”
Lee Sang-bong, Chairman of the Jeju Provincial Council, and Kim Han-kyu, Member of National Assembly, sent video messages of support, applauding WeLoveU’s role in promoting environmental well-being and addressing climate disparities. They expressed hope that the forum would ignite wider global action for the environment.
Participants also showed their commitment by signing a pledge in support of 5R + Rethink, joining WeLoveU in striving for a plastic-free planet.
Second session focused on each of the 5R along with the added principle of “Rethink.” Speakers included Kim Ok-hyun, Vice Chair of the IUCN Korea Committee; Lee Seung-a, Member of the Jeju Provincial Council; Jeong Dai-Yeun, Director of the Asia Climate Change Education Center; and Lee Seung-an, Secretary General of WeLoveU. They offered comprehensive insights into how plastic pollution emerged as a global crisis, as well as practical examples illustrating the current response strategies such as reuse and recycling, their limitations, potential improvements, and future outlooks.
At the heart of their message was the urgent need for a paradigm shift in how we perceive and respond to environmental issues. Councilor Lee Seung-a, who also leads the Climate Crisis Response Carbon Neutrality Forum, highlighted, “To cut down plastic production and promote resource circulation, we need collective action from businesses, governments, and individuals. This kind of solidarity begins with small, everyday concern for the environment.” Director Jeong echoed this, saying, “When our relationship with nature shifts from a human-centered mindset to an ecology-centered one, more people will naturally take part in green practices.” He urged for a collective awakening in environmental consciousness.
The audience listened attentively and participated in a dynamic Q&A session, enriching their knowledge and motivation for environmental engagement. Outside the main venue, an informative panel display showcased the severity of plastic pollution threatening ecosystems and human life, along with WeLoveU’s practical projects designed to address the crisis. This display helped attendees better understand the forum’s goals. One WeLoveU member, university student Heo Soo-bin (22), remarked, “We use so many plastic containers on campus, but I had no idea the issue was this serious. After learning about the wide range of eco-friendly initiatives globally, I’m motivated to look into them and do my part in reducing plastic.”
WeLoveU has previously hosted the Save the World Global Forum in 2018 and 2019, aiming to promote emergency relief and establish partnerships for sustainable life-saving efforts. The forum is steadily establishing itself as a global platform for creative collaboration among government agencies, NGOs, and leaders in diplomacy, academia, and medicine to tackle humanity’s most pressing challenges.
Intl. WeLoveU Foundation’s Fundraising Gala: Inspiring a Kinder World
On January 30, members of the WeLoveU East U.S. Chapter held a year-end meeting with their welfare project partners to reflect on 2024 and wrap up the year.
Under the title,
“Intl. WeLoveU Foundation’s Fundraising Gala: Inspiring a Kinder World”, the event brought together welfare project partners to express appreciation, share the vision for the coming year’s initiatives, and strengthen continued collaboration.
Approximately 120 guests attended, including the Ambassador of Vanuatu
to the United Nations, Pennsylvania State Representative, Deputy Director
of HDR New York–New Jersey, Vice President of Manasquan Bank, and
representatives from Amazon and SHI, and the Hispanic Statewide Chamber
of Commerce of NJ, along with WeLoveU leaders. The evening underscored
the importance of partnerships across individuals, civil society, government,
and business—reaffirming a shared commitment to building a world
where humanity and the planet thrive together.
The event opened at 6:45 p.m. with a warm and energetic welcome
from WeLoveU member Chanel Krause. Guests viewed a video presentation
showcasing WeLoveU’s major initiatives from 2024,
followed by words of gratitude from the chapter leader and representatives.
Daniel Lee, President of the East U.S. Chapter, shared: “I’m honored
to serve as the President of the WeLoveU Foundation in the United States.
At the heart of this celebration is our Founder and Chairwoman Zahng Gil-Jah,
who started our organization in 2001 in South Korea.
Without her taking the first step, thinking of others,
we would not be sitting here tonight. She asks, “How can I help?”
This simple question is more important now than ever.
In the coming year, we will continue to deliver a mother’s love
to our global family. I hope to share the warmth of this night
with everyone here who embraces WeLoveU’s vision.”
Over dinner, guests reflected on the impact of the past year—
walking alongside global neighbors through service and compassion.
By 8:00 p.m., the evening reached its highlight as partner organizations and
distinguished guests took the stage, sharing words of support for WeLoveU’s
mission and offering reflections on sustainable living and humanitarian service.
To conclude the event, WeLoveU presented plaques of appreciation to four
outstanding partner organizations in recognition of their dedicated collaboration.
At the event, representatives from HDR presented a donation of $35,000
to WeLoveU. This contribution will support upcoming initiatives,
including the establishment of two “Pollinator Gardens1 ” in 2025
as part of the Mom’s Garden Project.
1 A habitat for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which play a vital role in plant pollination. It helps preserve pollinator populations in the face of the climate crisis.
The event also featured a review of the Calming Room initiative—spaces
designedto promote students’ emotional well-being and academic success.
Attendees received a briefing on the East U.S. Chapter’s main welfare projects
for the upcoming year. Additional highlights included interactive activity booths
such as a photo zone, a mini calming room, and an exhibition honoring Chairwoman
Zahng Gil-jah’s lifelong path of service, which attracted attention from guests.
Don Riepe, Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Manager
“When I think of WeLoveU, the words that come to mind are devotion, passion, and kindness. The incredible work they do around the world is both impressive and moving. I’ve always been a strong supporter of WeLoveU, which is why I joined tonight. What makes this evening shine is all people here, cheering and helping one another with warm smiles. I believe there’s much more we can accomplish together with WeLoveU.”
Don Riepe, Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Manager
Robert Williams III, PubSec Project Manager, SHI
“The speeches shared tonight were the best part of the event. I was truly inspired by the stories. I enjoyed the comic book activity and planting a seedling in a cup—both were great. WeLoveU consistently offers trustworthy ideas and suggestions for how we can serve our communities, especially when we don’t know where to start. I hope more people get involved in WeLoveU’s activities.”
Robert Williams III, PubSec Project Manager, SHI
Lawren Monroe, Social Worker at University High School
“WeLoveU created a calming room at University High School. I’ve been a school social worker there for 24 years, and after the COVID-19 pandemic, many students returned with fear and anxiety. Some had even lost loved ones. In the calming room, they found rest, reflected on themselves, and regained emotional stability. They learned how to manage their feelings and realized that they are deeply loved and valued. As we wrapped up 2024, our school reached a 98% attendance rate, the highest in our district. This was all thanks to you. You helped our students regain hope. Thank you.”
Lawren Monroe, Social Worker at University High School
Student, University High School
“Whenever I’m having a conflict or need a break, I come to the calming room
to gather my thoughts. What makes this place special is that it helps me
calm down and relieve stress. I really love this room.”
Student, University High School
Student, University High School
“This room has a completely different atmosphere from the rest of the school.
Maybe it’s the calming blue color of the walls, but it helps me forget my worries.
After I’ve settled my thoughts here, I regain focus and feel emotionally balanced.”
Student, University High School
Randy Brown, Special Teams Coach at NFL Baltimore Ravens
“The WeLoveU videos—especially the school bag and winter clothing
donation efforts—left a deep impression on me. WeLoveU members truly
care for one another and even extend help beyond their own communities.
To anyone considering volunteering, I’d say, ‘Spending time with WeLoveU is truly meaningful.’”
Randy Brown, Special Teams Coach at NFL Baltimore Ravens
Katie E. Meyers, Vice President of Client Experience Manasquan Bank
“It’s an honor to witness these amazing activities happening
in our own community. In October, Manasquan Bank partnered
with WeLoveU to plant more than 30 trees in a local park.
We look forward to continuing these projects
and planting seeds of hope, growth, and change together.”
Katie E. Meyers, Vice President of Client Experience Manasquan Bank
Guests, corporate partners, and WeLoveU members looked ahead to 2025
with the hope of even greater collaborative efforts
to improve lives across the global village.
WeLoveU Supports Small Island Developing States (SIDS)
Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are particularly vulnerable
to climate disasters due to various environmental factors.
They face severe damage from rising sea level, typhoons, and floods,
yet often lack the economic capacity to respond affectively.
Recognizing the gravity of these circumstances, WeLoveU has been
supporting these countries. During the 21st New Life Concert
held last year, WeLoveU pledged to assist SIDS.
WeLoveU’s support goes beyond financial aid, raising awareness
in the international community about climate disasters
and reminding us of the need for joint efforts to address them.
Climate Change: A Task for All of Us
From March to September, officials from the U.S. WeLoveU delegation
delivered $10,000 to Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, East Timor, and Suriname
through their respective prime ministers or their U.S. embassies, emphasizing
the importance of collaboration in responding to climate disasters.
The recipient countries expressed gratitude for WeLoveU’s support,
emphasizing that the aid is vital in reducing the impacts of climate change
on their citizens and reaffirming their commitment
to overcoming these challenges through continued global cooperation.
Continued interest and cooperation from the international community
to help countries vulnerable to climate disasters will bring practical changes,
enabling small island nations and low-lying regions
to prepare for climate disasters and minimize damage.
WeLoveU will support the future of small island developing countries
through continuous interest and support.
P.S.
Support for Samoa, a nation composed of nine islands in the South Pacific,
is also planned in the near future.
The Intl. WeLoveU Foundation Attends the 4th International Conference on SIDS
On May 26, the day before the start of the 4th International Conference on Small Island Developing States1 (hereafter referred to as SIDS) in Antigua and Barbuda, nestled in the Caribbean Sea, the Intl. WeLoveU Foundation (hereafter referred to as WeLoveU) arranged a significant event. At the ceremony hosted by Antigua and Barbuda and organized by the United Nations to welcome the heads of over 70 countries and distinguished guests who came to participate in the International Conference on SIDS, WeLoveU put on a variety of performances.
1 An International conference where leaders and diplomats from Small Island Developing States, at the forefront of climate change issues, gather to discuss pressing economic, cultural, and environmental challenges. Hosted by the United Nations once every decade, with the third conference held in Samoa.
The welcome ceremony began with an inaugural address by the Governor-General of Antigua and Barbuda at the Government House in the capital, St. John’s.
“I am delighted to welcome heads of states and dignitaries from around the world attending the 4th International Conference on SIDS. The theme ‘Charting the Course Toward Resilient Prosperity’ resonates deeply with all of us. In these challenging times, our shared vision and unity are more crucial than ever. I extend heartfelt thanks to the various ministries, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Finance, for their substantial support for this international conference. I also express profound gratitude to the Intl. WeLoveU Foundation for performing this precious program today. I look forward to the uplifting melodies of the orchestra that will bring us joy.”
Sir Rodney Williams, Governor-General of Antigua and Barbuda
Immediately after, the Secretary-General of the United Nations took the stage to welcome and express gratitude to the participants of the international conference. He also highlighted the unfortunate reality of Small Island Developing States suffering from various disasters caused by climate change.
“I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the people of Antigua and Barbuda, who have welcomed us to host this international conference with 5,000 attendees in this small island nation. It is truly a miraculous feat. I have confidence in the resilience and prosperity of citizens in Small Island Developing States to ensure their recovery. Although you have not contributed significantly to climate change, you are on the front lines facing existential threats caused by it. We must take action toward a world where justice prevails in climate, financial, and economic matters.”
António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations
After the host introduced the Intl. WeLoveU Foundation, the formal welcoming ceremony began. The event, beautifully coordinated by members from the WeLoveU U.S. Eastern Chapter, featured a Korean traditional drum performance, orchestral music, and choral singing, creating a harmonious and stunning atmosphere.
The orchestra captivated attendees with powerful melodies such as the “Spirit Lake Overture” and jazz piece “Satin Doll.” The choir received great applause for their performance of the theme song “When You Believe” from the animated film The Prince of Egypt.
Following the performances, Sir Rodney Williams, Governor-General of Antigua and Barbuda, expressed gratitude for WeLoveU’s invaluable support toward the 4th International Conference on SIDS. He presented a plaque of appreciation through the Head of WeLoveU U.S. Eastern Chapter to Honorary Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah.
Daniel Lee, Head of the WeLoveU U.S. Eastern Chapter, stated, “For a healthy society and a hopeful future, the world must unite as one. We look forward to new and sustainable partnerships aimed at improving the lives of all our global neighbors.” Saying that he wanted to deliver a special message of love and hope to those in need, he shouted, “We Love You,” together with his members. Attendees responded with cheers and applause.
4th International Conference on SIDS, Toward Resilient Prosperity
The international conference took place from the 27th to the 30th at American University of Antigua, focusing on the theme “Charting the Course Toward Resilient Prosperity.” Leaders of small island nations discussed economic, cultural, and environmental issues, seeking solutions through spirited debates.
The WeLoveU delegation also attended, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation and the role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
The delegation also met with heads of states and representatives from various countries to convey Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah’s message of love to the global family, pledging to cooperate in helping those in need.
Meanwhile, WeLoveU supported the smooth operation of the international conference by donating 1,200 shirts and over 200 mobile phones for event volunteers and safety officers.
Through close cooperation with governments and organizations worldwide, WeLoveU will continue to engage in diverse relief and welfare activities, contributing to a brighter future for neighbors in Small Island Developing States.
26th New Life Family Walkathon
Let’s Create a World of Peace and Happiness Together
Earth is the precious home for 8 billion people. However, there are no longer any places untouched by the impacts of climate change. According to the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre [IDMC], 32.6 million people worldwide lost their homes due to disasters such as floods, storms, and droughts in 2022 alone. In 2020, the International Think Tank Institute for Economic and Peace [IEP] predicted that 1.2 billion climate refugees would emerge over the next 30 years.
On May 26, an event was held to help global neighbors suffering from climate disasters and to protect the green earth. The 26th New Life Family Walkathon, hosted by the Intl. WeLoveU Foundation (hereinafter referred to as WeLoveU), took place at Incheon Cheongna Lake Park. Approx. 5,000 people, including WeLoveU members from Incheon and northern Gyeonggi Province, participated to share love with neighbors beyond borders. Honorary Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah, Chairman of the Board Kim Joong-rak, and diplomatic representatives and their families from 12 countries, including the Ambassadors of Kazakhstan and Ecuador to Korea, also attended the event.
Many distinguished guests participated in the event, including the Korea Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect President Yi Bae-keun, actor Kim Seong-hwan, singers Yun Tae-gyu and Lee Seung-hun. The event was supported by the Ministry of Health and Welfare, Seoul Metropolitan Municipality, the Korean NPO Alliance for the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Korea Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect, and Incheon Sejong General Hospital.
On the day of the event, WeLoveU members began arriving at Cheongna Lake Park early in the morning. The cool, cloudy weather, combined with the members’ vibrant appearance in light green T-shirts reminiscent of May’s foliage, added vitality to the tranquil holiday morning as they gathered in small groups.
“Hello, thank you! We love you!”
At 11 a.m., the opening ceremony began with a cheerful greeting from Announcer Kim Byung-chan. The first performance was by the New Life Children’s Choir. The children’s lively stage presence, with even their mistakes appearing endearing, brought wide smiles to the faces of the participants.
Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah, in her opening address, emphasized the event’s purpose and vision: “Through the 26th Walkathon, we aim to support victims of disasters both domestically and internationally, helping them recover their daily lives. Additionally, we seek to expand international understanding of these victims, thereby promoting multifaceted support. We aim to raise awareness of climate crisis and enhance responses such as tree planting, encouraging broad participation from individuals and society to achieve environmental welfare.” She further urged, “Even after this Walkathon, let’s continue to show interest, support, and encouragement to disaster-affected families around the world.” She emphasized solidarity for a better future for humanity, stating, “By helping each other and showing concern and support, the global village can become a world of peace and happiness.”
Kazakhstan Ambassador to Korea, H.E. Nurgali Arystanov, expressed gratitude to WeLoveU for its diverse international welfare activities, noting, “Even in today’s highly developed world, many people face difficulties.” He added, “Walking is an excellent exercise that keeps our bodies and minds healthy and strengthens our bonds of friendship. Let’s enjoy walking together,” in his congratulatory speech.
Following the screening of congratulatory video messages from various dignitaries, a donation presentation ceremony took place. Through the 26th Walkathon, WeLoveU aims to support 10 countries affected by climate disasters, including Peru, Ecuador, the Philippines, and Kenya, as well as 5 island countries facing climate crises, such as the Solomon Islands, Kiribati, and Cape Verde. Domestically, WeLoveU will aid 100 households vulnerable to climate change in the metropolitan area. Additionally, it will extend its generosity to war refugees and disaster victims in 24 countries, including Ukraine, Rwanda, Bangladesh, DR Congo, Jordan, and Iraq, with a total of 870 million KRW (approx. 633,490 USD) in donations. Separately, they will also donate 10 million KRW (approx. 7,280 USD) for medical expenses to support children in Mongolia suffering from hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy.
The members, who had gathered their contributions with the hope of providing strength and courage to families in need around the world, performed warm-up exercises before embarking on the main event. Amidst the powerful music of a marching band, Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah declared the start of the walkathon, and participants joyfully began their walk along the designated course.
Cheongna Lake Park was beautifully decorated with fresh greenery and colorful roses in full bloom. The light green waves created by the participants, led by Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah, continued along the promenade. As they walked, they enjoyed the breathtaking scenery of the lake and flowers under the clear sky, matching their strides with one another. Amidst the scent of flowers carried by the fresh spring breeze, the innocent laughter of children, who were delightedly watching soap bubbles floating in the air, spread around. At the midpoint of the walking course, university student members engaged in an environmental campaign, holding placards with messages promoting environmental conservation.
At the square, which served as both the starting and ending point of the walking course, various side events focusing on recycling and environmental friendliness were organized to attract participants’ attention, including a panel exhibition introducing the WeLoveU’s Mom’s Garden Project. After completing the walk, members visited different booths where they could engage in eco-friendly activities such as making keychains from recycled socks and sea glass, creating cinnamon air fresheners, and using pedal-powered bicycles to make cotton candy. Through these experiences, they pledged to adopt eco-friendly practices in their daily lives, such as resource recycling and energy conservation, to address climate change.
Orlin Manuel Madrid Cepeda, Charge d’Affaires at the Ecuadorian Embassy, expressed his gratitude and said, “In Ecuador, there are many people in need, including flood victims, and we are receiving great help through donations from the Intl. WeLoveU Foundation. It helps people understand and help their neighbors suffering from poverty and disaster.”
Juan Manuel Medina, Deputy Head of Mission at the Costa Rican Embassy, said, “Our country is also making efforts to cooperate with international organizations in preparation for the recent climate crisis. I’m happy to participate in an event that helps global family during these times. I think it is a beneficial activity that naturally reminds youth of climate change and environmental issues.” Park Wi-kwang, Director of the Incheon Volunteer Center, said, “The climate crisis is an urgent challenge that confronts all of us right now. At a time when national attention is needed, events like this will lead to the participation of many people and create a world where ‘we,’ not just ‘me,’ live together.”
WeLoveU member Ahn Hyo-min, who came with her 9-year-old daughter, said, “I explained the purpose of the walkathon to my child and went through various experiences together. I think my child learned more deeply about the difficulties faced by families around the world.” WeLoveU couple members Kim Jae-sik and Lee Hye-kyung (50s, Incheon) said, “If we didn’t have this opportunity, we wouldn’t know much about what’s happening on the other side of the world. It’s meaningful to be able to help the world through a small act like walking. We appreciate the opportunity to volunteer and refresh ourselves as well.”
As the event ended, raindrops began to fall from the sky. Looking at the spring rain, the members hoped that the steps they took together today would convey hope like a refreshing rain to our neighbors around the world.
Helping Venezuelan Refugees and Migrants Settle Smoothly
People leaving Venezuela, due to a severe economic downturn and social issues, are crossing the border into Brazil. Every day, Boa Vista in Roraima, close to Venezuela, is bustling with migrants and refugees. On humanitarian grounds, the Brazilian government is assisting their settlement in the community under cooperation with local authorities and international organizations.
WeLoveU too contributed to their settlement.
On August 11, after discussions with officials from the UN Refugee Agency’s Boa Vista office, WeLoveU decided to support the Centro de Coordenação de Interiorização (CCI),
a refugee coordination center, with educational equipment.
The CCI is an organization that helps migrants and refugees
learn various job skills to settle quickly into communities.
From April 2018 to July 2023, around 110,000 migrants and refugees
who arrived in Roraima strived self-reliance through vocational training. However,
the CCI had been struggling with a severe lack of digital educational equipment,
which hindered the smooth progress of their training programs.
To address this, WeLoveU donated 20 laptops to the CCI on December 21.
Athos Roberto Souza, Deputy Commander of the Humanitarian Logistics Task Force
“This donation by WeLoveU will greatly held the education of Venezuelan refugees. Securing employment will make it easier for them to settle in Brazil, accelerating community integration. Therefore, educational equipment is truly important.
We are very grateful to WeLoveU for contributing to better integration by donating these computers.”
Athos Roberto Souza, Deputy Commander of the Humanitarian Logistics Task Force
Marcel Boccia, Internalization and Integration Coordinator at IOM-UN Migration
“The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is very grateful for WeLoveU’s donation. This is important as it helps Venezuelan migrants learn skills and train themselves for employment, aiding in their settlement and integration.
We sincerely appreciate your attention and dedication in providing such necessary assistance.”
Marcel Boccia, Internalization and Integration Coordinator at IOM-UN Migration
Gregório Pernia, Professor at SENAI University of Technology
“Thanks to these computers, the quality of education will improve. They are more modern and sophisticated than the previous equipment.
We will now be able to engage with the refugees through new and diverse programs. I am very grateful to WeLoveU Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah for executing such an excellent plan in a highly humanitarian way.”
Gregório Pernia, Professor at SENAI University of Technology
WeLoveU is dedicated to protecting people in distress due to conflicts,
climate crises, economic crises, and other challenges. We will continue to provide
necessary support in coordination with relevant organizations and local communities
to help these individuals start new lives in a safe environment.
21st New Life Concert
The Song of Hope Resounded After the Pandemic
On a day when raindrops turned into snowflakes in the chilly weather, a heartwarming event was held to comfort the cold and weary hearts of neighbors around the world. The 21st New Life Concert held after a four-year hiatus following the COVID-19 pandemic, brought together members and an eager audience. They arrived early with excitement for the long waited concert and the cold could not bother those who had warm love for their neighbors.
On November 29, the 21st New Life Concert was held at the Students’ Gymnasium of the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education. The event was organized by the Intl. WeLoveU Foundation and sponsored by the Ministry of Health and Welfare, the Seoul Metropolitan Municipality, the Korea NPO Solidarity of UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Korea Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect, and Incheon Sejong Hospital. Approximately 6,000 people attended the concert, including the WeLoveU Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah, board members, and people from all walks of life such as law, culture, education, and media. Diplomats from around 10 countries, including Laos, Belarus, Mongolia, Iraq, Libya, and Sierra Leone, were also present.
Around 6 p.m., the first part of the concert began with the donation delivery presided by entertainer Kim Sung-hwan. In the opening address, Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah expressed gratitude to the attendees for consistently sharing their warm love. She stated, “Your warm love over the years have provided strength and hope to our neighbors, saving the global community.” Recalling WeLoveU’s slogan, she said, “Let’s ensure that no one feels lonely, with motherly love. WeLoveU will stay dedicated to the happiness of people around the world next year, too, so that your warm support and expectations will not be in vain.” She anticipated that the long waited concert would comfort people facing difficulties with the songs of love.
H. E. Oyunbaatar Jagdag, Chargé d’affaires of Mongolia to Korea, said, “Mongolia and Republic of Korea have had a long and close relationship, and our cooperation has already branched out extensively in many areas. Among them, humanitarian cooperation is essential, and WeLoveU is contributing to this through various activities. I wish prosperity for the Intl. WeLoveU Foundation.” H.E. Viliami Va’inga Tone, Ambassador of Tonga to the UN, and H.E. Odo Tevi, Ambassador of Vanuatu to the U.N. sent their video congratulatory messages, expressing gratitude for WeLoveU’s support for climate crisis-affected countries, and anticipating ongoing collaboration.
Subsequently, the donation delivery took place. Through the 21st concert, WeLoveU supported Morocco earthquake victims and Libya flood victims, as well as five countries—Tonga, Tuvalu, East Timor, Vanuatu, and Samoa—that are facing sea level rise due to climate change. Additionally, WeLoveU helped 141 underprivileged groups and multicultural families in the Rep. of Korea, contributing a total of 260 million KRW [200,000 USD] domestically and internationally.
The second part of the event began by the New Life Children’s Choir. The cheerful and lively choir with their bright smiles quickly brightened the atmosphere. The performers took the stage amidst the delightful atmosphere hosted by announcer Kim Byeong-chan, and expressed their overwhelming joy at performing at the New Life Concert after a long time, exuding their vibrant enthusiasm and heartfelt energy. Singers Lee Yong, Lee Seung-hoon, Kim Sung-hwan, Kim Jong-hwan, Lia Kim, Yoon Tae-kyu, Jung Soo-ra, and Sopranos Park Mi-hye, Kang Min-seong, Tenor Yoon Seung-hwan, and Baritone Oh Yu-seok presented a wide range of songs. The audience enjoyed a delightful time, shining their flash lights on their phones, and singing along. The passionate performance even received a standing ovation.
Singer Lee Yong expressed his joy, saying, “I’ve been looking forward to the New Life Concert. Unlike in the past, we now live in an age where we can access news from around the world, but it is challenging to readily assist others. I’m grateful to convey warm love through this event and donate my talents for our global neighbors.” Baritone Oh Yu-seok, who performed duets and solos, said, “The common theme of the songs we sang today is hope. I selected songs, hoping we could bring hope to more people. I wish everyone will embrace new hope and move toward a brighter future.” Singer Jung Soo-ra, who decorated the finale of the concert with “Ah! Korea,” responding to encore requests, said, “I’ve missed this stage so much. This had always been a rewarding and joyous performance that concludes my year, so I was thrilled to be back here again. I aim to continue supporting those in need with WeLoveU and spread love and courage.”
Counsellor Asem B A Abdelmalik of the Embassy of Libya to Korea, commented, “After the major flood in September, the situation in Libya is improving, but we still require substantial support. WeLoveU’s assistance will enhance the solidarity between Korea and Libya. I will not forget this help.”
Despite the chilly weather, attendees who arrived early at the venue expressed proud reflections, having together completed the concert with warm cheers and applause. Kang Yoon-seol (from Incheon) said with a warm smile, “Although we often hear about our neighbors’ challenges in the news, it’s easy to forget them quickly. But events like this make me believe that simple acts of kindness can bring forth a great love.” Yoon Min-kyu (from Seongnam) who attended with his entire family, said, “It’s been a few years since I attended the New Life Concert. This time was really touching. It was a meaningful experience that taught my kids the importance of sharing and volunteering.”
WeLoveU’s melody of love, signifying a new beginning beyond the pandemic, will powerfully resonate even more farther, ensuring that no one feels lonely in this world.