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.
25th New Life Family Walkathon
Early in the morning of June 18, people dressed in sky-blue clothes gathered
at Aseana City, a commercial district in Paranaque City, the Philippines.
WeLoveU members and citizens came from all over Metro Manila
to participate in the 25th New Life Family Walkathon.
This walkathon, in which more than 1,300 people participated,
aimed to help victims whose livelihoods were threatened due to a cargo ship oil spill
that occurred in the waters near Oriental Mindoro at the end of February.
The event started with a beautiful quartet by WeLoveU members. In his opening speech, Lee Geon-haeng, Head of Las Piñas Chapter of WeLoveU, explained that the purpose of the walkathon was to convey Mother’s love to neighbors affected by oil spills.
Vinscent Gahol, Officer of the Oriental Mindoro Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction & Management Office[PDRRMO], said, “We are grateful to Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah for holding the walkathon. It is necessary for many people to cooperate to build resilient and peaceful communities in the event of a disaster.”
Upon cutting the ribbon to signal the start of the walking competition,
WeLoveU members chanted “We Love You” with their families and neighbors
and took a powerful step forward. The walking course continued for about 2 kilometers
along the main street of Aseana City. Lively music played in each section,
and the youth performance team’s exciting dances made the walkathon like a festival.
The children had fun imitating the dance moves and waving the balloons and pinwheels
in their hands. Many members marched, holding signs with messages cheering up the victims or protecting the beautiful environment of the earth.
The photo exhibition featuring WeLoveU’s various relief efforts, including disaster
recovery and educational support, and the panel exhibition of environmental
activities to respond to climate change also attracted the attention of citizens.
The photo zone and face painting booth were crowded with families with children.
On that day, WeLoveU delivered a donation plate promising to provide
500,000 pesos (9,000 USD) for the oil spill victims in Oriental Mindoro.
WeLoveU members and citizens have taken meaningful steps with their families
and created a beautiful world in which we can live together.
Donation Delivery Ceremony in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro
The last lecture was the global citizenship education by YI Bae-Keun, the President On July 20, WeLoveU members visited Calapan City Hall, Oriental Mindoro Province and delivered 500,000 pesos to help the oil spill victims as promised during the walkathon. The donations will be delivered to 100 fishermen households suffering from the mass death of seafood and fishing ban.
Marilou Morillo, Mayor of Calapan City
“I’m honored to be chosen by the WeLoveU Foundation. There are many people who have been affected by the oil spill in Calapan City. It’s been a while since the state of disaster was declared, but it was only recently lifted. I would like to thank Chairman Zahng Gil-jah for helping the disaster victims. I believe love is to help people in need. Thank you again.”
Marilou Morillo, Mayor of Calapan City
Daisy Gallardo, Victim
“I’m a fisherman affected by the oil spill. I sincerely thank the Intl. WeLoveU Foundation. Your support is of great help to me.”
Daisy Gallardo, Victim
Rodrigo Sabinorio, Victim
“I’d like to thank the Chairman of WeLoveU for helping us. Thank you so much.”
Rodrigo Sabinorio, Victim
WeLoveU supports the rapid recovery of the daily lives
of the victims in Oriental Mindoro Province.
The 24th New Life Family Walkathon
Creating a Bright Future by Walking Together
In April, when spring was ripening in the warm sunlight, the WeLoveU members received glad news. The New Life Family Walkathon, which was stopped for three years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, was held again. On April 23, more than 7,000 people, including the WeLoveU members and citizens of the metropolitan area, participated in the 24th New Life Family Walkathon at the Peace Square in Seoul World Cup Park to help the global villagers who were suffering from disasters, wars, and poverty. The World Cup Park, which was covered with new green sprouts, was in full bloom with the members wearing yellow T-shirts.
The walkathon was hosted by the Intl. WeLoveU Foundation (hereinafter referred to as the “WeLoveU”), 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, Incheon Sejong Hospital, and the Senior Healthcare Sharing Foundation. Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah and the board of directors of the WeLoveU, and distinguished guests, including Yi Bae-keun the Chairman of the Korea Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect, and diplomats from nine countries such as the Ambassadors of Laos, El Salvador, Belarus, and Angola to Korea joined the event and delivered a message of love and hope beyond borders.
Around 10 AM, Announcer Kim Byeong-chan started the event with a witty remark. At the pre-ceremony event, the New Life Children’s Choir welcomed the participants with cute dances. Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah explained the purpose of the walkathon in her opening speech; it was to help unfortunate neighbors in 23 countries, including the earthquake victims in Turkiye and Syria. She said, “Through today’s walkathon, I would like to deliver a message of hope and support to our global village neighbors that they are not alone but we are here for them. Even after the walkathon is over, let’s continue to send encouragement and support to our neighbors in difficulties.” She inspired the audience with the vision of the WeLoveU, saying, “We can achieve many things when we work together. If we help one another with compassion, the global village will become a world of peace and happiness.”
The Ambassador of Laos to Korea, H.E. Songkane Luangmuninthone said, “Love for humanity is more powerful when we work together. I hope that the solidarity and love for humanity like the walkathon today will be continued and that a bright future for the global village will be opened.” The El Salvador Ambassador to Korea, H.E. Jaime Jose Lopez Badía, said, “The world has developed considerably in many areas, but the number of refugees from wars and climate disasters continues to increase. Now is a time when volunteering becomes a greater help for society than ever before.” He expressed his gratitude for the WeLoveU’s support and looked forward to continued cooperation in the future.
WeLoveU Goodwill Ambassador Kim Seong-hwan, a TV broadcaster, said, “Love from each of us can make tremendous love.” He hoped that more love and hope can spread through the Walkathon. Congress Members Park Hong-geun and Seo Young-gyo sent congratulatory messages to encourage the WeLoveU’s efforts to help neighbors around the world.
Through this walkathon, the WeLoveU will help unfortunate neighbors in 23 countries, including the Turkiye-Syria earthquake victims and the Ukraine war victims, as well as refugees and underprivileged groups in Peru, Mexico, Ecuador, El Salvador, Chile, Nepal, Laos, Mongolia, Cambodia, Thailand, Philippines, Malaysia, Timor-Leste, Jordan, Iraq, Pakistan, Mozambique, Gabon, Angola, and the Rep. of South Africa. In Korea, donation for wildfire victims, medical and living expenses for 141 households from underprivileged and multicultural families, and the donation of 30 million KRW (appr. 24,000 USD) to the Senior Healthcare Sharing Foundation were promised. A total of 700 million KRW (appr. 540,000 USD) was donated for domestic and abroad aid. Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah finished the first part of the opening ceremony by delivering donation plates to diplomats in Korea.
The start of the second part of the walkathon was with Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah’s declaration of departure. The participants, who started to take a step with the powerful performance of a marching band, walked the 1.3 km (0.8 mi) route passing Nanji Pond along the promenade. At the middle and end of the route, the young adults prepared special performances to make their journey fun and memorable. The message to take action for the earth in our daily lives, such as reducing the use of disposable items, recycling, power saving, and planting trees, was expressed in cheerful dances and songs, and everyone enjoyed it. On the event day, the members who participated in the WeLoveU Clean Action Campaign, such as bringing a tumbler and lunch box instead of the disposable and using public transportation, reaffirmed their will to put even small things into action for the preservation of the clean earth, and agreed with the message the performance team conveyed.
After completing the route, enjoying the spring with their family and friends in the beautiful nature, the members participated in additional events such as the WeLoveU introduction panel exhibition, world culture experience, face painting, and taking picture in the photo zone. At the world culture experience zone, they introduced ethnic products from six countries, including Laos, Angola, Ecuador, and El Salvador, and provided a variety of programs such as experiencing traditional games to overcome language and culture differences and to share love with the global villagers. The citizens who passed by, too, showed interest and listened to the explanation of the volunteers. At the Lao booth, international students from Laos performed a folk dance flash mob. Both adults and children had a pleasant afternoon, and they lined up to leave precious memories in the photo zone as well.
Ambassadors from various countries such as Belarus, Laos, Gabon, and Angola expressed their willingness to cooperate with the WeLoveU to practice love for humanity through various activities. The Ambassador of Belarus to Korea, H.E. Andrew Chernetsky, who came with his family, said, “Today’s walkathon was amazing. If many families participate in the walkathon, we can make a better society.” Jassim Mohammed Lafta AL JANABI, First Secretary and Consul of the Iraqi Embassy in Korea, said, “You’re doing a very touching work, considering and helping people undergoing hardships all over the world. If you share your experiences such as installing water pumps, it will be especially useful to improve the environmental problems in Iraq caused by the dry climate.”
Kim Ji-yeon who participated in the walkathon many times before the pandemic, said, “I’m very happy and proud to participate in the walkathon safely and healthy again. I would like to cheer for my neighbors around the world, who are in difficult situations due to the earthquake and so on. Every cloud has a silver lining.” Park Cheol (Gwangjin-gu, Seoul) said, “When children become teenagers, they usually don’t like hanging out with their parents. But my daughter was excited for the event today. It was nice to come to the walkathon today. I was able to teach my daughter that we could make the world happier and better when we live together with others, not doing it alone.”
“One step, two steps, we can do!”
Like the phrase shouted by the performance team, the participants remembered that even a small step of each person will be a big step that will change the world if they all take it together. In the spring that we’ve met after the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic, the WeLoveU is planning to actively volunteer throughout the world for the happiness of mankind and a sustainable earth.
The 23rd New Life Family Walkathon in the U.S.
The Journey of Hope to Take Care of Our Planet and Our Neighbors
The Intl. WeLoveU Foundation held a relay of worldwide walkathons as part of the “Save the World” Movement to save the earth and our global neighbors from climate change and various disasters. The volunteers in the Eastern U.S. Branch walked the last leg of the walkathons this year.
On July 28, 2019, the 23rd New Life Family Walkathon was held at Liberty State Park in Jersey City, New Jersey. This aimed to support Mozambique who was suffering from the aftermath of two cyclones that resulted in 640 deaths and 2.2 million victims in the beginning of the year. On the day of the event, a majority of the participants carpooled to the park to reduce carbon emissions and improve the air quality, adding meaning to the “Save the World” Movement. Around 2,500 people including VIPs from various fields such as Mozambique’s Ambassador to the United States H.E. Carlos Dos Santos, Congressman Donald Payne, Jr. from New Jersey’s 10th District, Actor and Climate Reality Project Leader Tim Guinee, United Nations DGC Public Information Officer Felipe Queipo, and French American Chamber of Commerce Liaison Lindsey Prowse participated in the walkathon.
At 9 a.m., the WeLoveU volunteers dedicated singing and dancing performances to comfort the victims in Mozambique and to express their love to the global villagers. After the WeLoveU theme song performance, Daniel Lee, president of Intl. WeLoveU Foundation Eastern U.S. Branch delivered the opening address. He mentioned a saying from Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah, “We are one family living in a big house called ‘Earth.’” He added, “Let’s encourage and serve one another with the heart of a mother as the members of the global village.” Furthermore, he expressed hope the walkathon would instill a sense of responsibility into the participants so they might take good care of their neighbors and our planet.
H.E. Ambassador Carlos Dos Santos said in his address, “The Mozambican government is doing its best to build hospitals, schools, houses, bridges, and roads in cooperation with the international community, but it still needs more help,” and expressed gratitude to Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah for having given a helping hand.
Afterward, each special guest addressed the crowd. Congressman Donald Payne Jr. said, “Today, we’ve gathered to help those who are in difficulties due to cyclones in Mozambique. Recovery efforts for Mozambique will begin with our walking,” and promised to continue to help Mozambique.
In addition, Actor and Climate Reality Project Leader Tim Guinee and the UN DGC Public Information Officer Felipe Queipo pointed out the issues of climate change that the world is faced with, and urged the participants to take immediate actions to resolve them. The participants strongly agreed with the addresses, and pledged to make every effort to contribute to accomplishing the SDGs with steady interest in climate change issues.
The WeLoveU Foundation then presented a donation worth USD 50,000, which was raised through the walkathon for the restoration work for Mozambique.
At about noon, every participant stood at the starting line under the blue sky. As the participants at the very front line cut the ribbon, shouting, “One, two, three, start!” they all began to walk, hearing the marching band play along the Hudson River with their families and friends, enjoying the magnificent scene of the New York City skyline. Along the 5-km long walking course, cheer teams encouraged walkers, and the walkers regained strength by refilling their reusable water bottles at the water stations. The WeLoveU Foundation provided reusable water bottles to participants in the beginning of the event.
In addition to the walkathon, activity booths were arranged for the participants to enjoy. These included interactive and fun games, which made it easy for everyone to learn about the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. One activity involved spinning a wheel that landed on an SDG, and participants pledged on the signature board how to fulfill that goal for a sustainable future. Another way they learned about the SDGs was through the “ Start Doing Good” cartoon comic that drew people’s attention. There was also a photo booth with the cartoon characters and panel displays about WeLoveU’s worldwide blood drives, which were also taking place during the summer months.
H.E. Ambassador Carlos Dos Santos said, “I felt a great deal of solidarity from the speeches today and the responses from the participants. The donations will fly a long distance to help those who lost all they have. They will get their life back on track and rebuild their houses and workplaces. Also, they will be provided with clean water, medicine and medical supplies.” He expressed his gratitude to WeLoveU, saying he greatly supports the Foundation’s activities in his country.
The participants wanted in one mind to encourage and cheer up the people of Mozambique. August Kruesi the Vice President of Intl. WeLoveU Foundation Eastern U.S. Branch said, “Today, many members came from Florida, Massachusetts, and other places. People in Mozambique are suffering from a series of disasters, but we are, as global villagers, giving a helping hand to them. I hope that they will be encouraged, being aware of that fact.”
The walkathon relay’s three-month journey, which started in May in Korea, then in the Philippines and Peru, concluded in the U.S. Approximately 13,000 people participated in the walkathons to deliver hope and love to the global villagers suffering hardships. The International WeLoveU Foundation will continue to make every effort to pave the path to a sustainable future for the planet and mankind.
The 22nd New Life Family Walkathon in Peru
Walkathon held on the other side of the world for children with disability or heart disease
The Intl. WeLoveU Foundation, which had been carrying out global welfare activities with a mother’s love, held the 22nd New Life Family Walkathon in Lima, Peru. As part of Save the World movement, a humanitarian project for healthy earth and bright future for mankind, New Life Family Walkathon has been held all over the world; in the meantime, the baton of the walkathon was passed to Peru.
On June 23, 1,500 people, including city officials, members of the WeLoveU branch in Lima, and the local citizens, participated in the walkathon held at Loma Amarilla Ecological Park in Santiago de Surco in order to help neighbors in need. Through the 22nd New Life Family Walkathon in Peru, the WeLoveU planned to donate 50 wheelchairs to disabled children and provide aid to 10 children with heart disease, in cooperation with the Ministry of Health and Welfare.
The walkathon began at about 10 a.m. with the opening address by Kim Wang-hyeon, the WeLoveU branch manager. He expressed his gratitude to the participants, and said, “We will walk with a mother’s heart to give a new hope to those in despair. The new hope will grow to become a driving force behind making the world more beautiful than ever.”
Afterward, there were various performances such as dance by children, choir by youth members, traditional Peruvian dance, and playing traditional Peruvian music instruments, which brightened up the event atmosphere. After warming up, the participants with bright smiles went on the walking course.
The members walked around the park with their families, having friendly conversation. After turning around the park in a wide circle, they returned to the start line and took a celebratory photo, which brought the event to a close. The members felt greatly rewarded and happy that they were able to deliver hope and love to their neighbors by participating in the walkathon.
José Humberto Diez Canseco Rivero, Head of Santiago de Surco Government Administrative Plan Department, said, “The walkathon, today, was unprecedented and innovative. Through this, the participants will have an opportunity to make peace in their families;” he greatly complimented the WeLoveU on its activities.
The WeLoveU members expressed their hope to continually participate in the walkathon to help their neighbors in need, saying, “This event was meaningful and joyful as we could spend time together with our family.”
So far, 225,000 people have participated in the WeLoveU Walkathon. The total distance, which has been traveled, equals 13 times the circumference of the earth. The WeLoveU will continue to hold the walkathon throughout the world.
The 21st New Life Family Walkathon, Philippines
for making a bright future and protecting the earth
On May 6, the Save the World Movement, humanitarian vision activities of the Intl. WeLoveU Foundation, was proclaimed at the 20th New Life Family Walkathon held in Korea. In order to attract interests and participation from the world citizens and help people in need, WeLoveU decided to relay walkathon throughout the world.
The first country that was handed the baton of the walkathon was the Philippines, which held the 21st walkathon on May 26 on Diliman Campus of University of Philippines, Quezon City. It was attended by 3,000 people, including the President of Quezon City Council, city council members, volunteer organizations, and CEOs, most of whom were from Metro Manila. The fund raised through the walkathon will be used for tree-planting, natural disaster victim relief, and educational aid.
At 9 a.m., WeLoveU members in blue T-shirts gathered at Sunken Garden on the campus. The walkathon began with the performance by the Philippine National Police marching band. Quartets and dances by students and young adults excited the participants. Cynthia Villar, a Senator, in her opening address, said, “We are one family. Our collective efforts can truly help our brothers and sisters from various parts of the world.” Choi Jeong-man, Quezon City Branch Manager of WeLoveU, emphasized the importance of volunteer services conducted with the heart of a mother.
Then, the walkathon began in earnest. The members, with bright smiles, walked around the campus which was full of green leaves. Fathers put their children on their shoulders, and children walked, firmly holding their parents’ hands. Slogans for protecting neighbors and the earth were easily seen on pickets.
‘I am because of you’
‘When we heal the earth, we heal ourselves’
Families that completed 2.2 km (1.36 mile)-long walking course, viewed panels introducing Korean cultures and WeLoveU’s activities, and also enjoyed additional events such as having celebratory photos taken at a photo zone.
Ilac Angelo Diaz, the founder of Liter of Light which is a non-profit organization, shared his impressions and said, “Our biggest problem is trying to rely on other people. But in actuality, it’s not one person who can make a big change, but many people working together; they are the members of the WeLoveU.”
Mark Bryan Taglinao, a university student member of the WeLoveU, said, “Our local community is littered with trash as people habitually throw away things anywhere. Whenever I saw dirty streets, I was thinking to myself what I could do. But, today, through this walkathon, I became convinced that I could contribute to cleaning up my surrounding areas by improving people’s awareness of the environment. I’m so proud that the walkathon is changing people’s mind for the better. I will actively participate in it all the more.”
The walkathon relay, which began in the Philippines, is planned to be held in the continent of South America in June. The world is paying attention to the WeLoveU which embraces the world environment with the heart of a mother who takes care of her family.
The 20th New Life Family Walkathon
Proclamation of ‘Save the World’ Vision—the first step towards saving the earth with love
On a spring day when the leaves turn green, Seoul World Cup Peace Square was filled with beautiful yellow waves. This was a scenery made by the Intl. WeLoveU Foundation members who gathered together to help global villagers with love.
The 20th New Life Family Walkathon was hosted by the WeLoveU with the support of Seoul Metropolitan City, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Sejong Hospital, and Korea Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect on May 6. The walkathon was arranged to help neighbors in difficulties before the International Family Day on May 15. People from all walks of life attended the walkathon, including Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah and the directors of the WeLoveU, Yi Bae-keun the President of Korea Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect, Lee Woo-gyun the Chairman of UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network Korea Committee, and foreign diplomats and their families from sixteen countries.
Pre-event ceremonies began in the presence of 6,000 members at 10:20 a.m. The square was filled with bright laughter with the brisk and cheerful performance by the New Life Children Choir.
In the opening ceremony, Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah emphasized that family is the smallest unit in achieving happiness and the “source of providing happy energy to everyone.” She encouraged the participants to deliver the message of hope and love to the global villagers suffering under the tough environment and situations, in this age when it is a norm to regard all the global villagers as one family.
Afterward, ambassadors to Korea from eight countries—Honduras, Iraq, Côte d’Ivoire, Cambodia, El Salvador, Fiji, and Bolivia, gave congratulatory speeches, starting with H.E. Adel Mohammad ADAILEH from Jordan. H.E. Long Dimanche, Cambodian Ambassador to Korea, expressed his gratitude to the WeLoveU for helping people who are in hardships without accessing to basic human rights due to various disasters. H.E. Peniana Lalabalavu, Fijian Ambassador to Korea, said, “Every day, we hear the news of poverty, crying out, and violence. I am sincerely grateful to the WeLoveU for conveying messages of love to the world.” Upon hearing the speech, all the members replied with a loud “We Love U!”
Ban Ki-moon, a former UN Secretary-General, expected that the WeLoveU, as a global NGO, would stand at the forefront of resolving the environmental issues such as fine dust. He said, “The goals of the WeLoveU correspond to the UN SDGs, and the WeLoveU has made much progress in achieving the goals.” Jeff Brez, Representative of UN DGC, too delivered a congratulatory message for the opening of Family Walkathon through a video.
After VIP guests’ congratulatory messages, donation plates were given. Through this walkathon, the WeLoveU donated 311 million won for war refugees, disaster victims, climate refugees, and socially vulnerable groups in 11 countries such as Jordan, Iraq, Mozambique, Laos, Bangladesh, Fiji, Vietnam, Uzbekistan, Côte d’Ivoire, Zambia, Nigeria, and so on, including Gangwondo forest fire refugees, child abuse victims in four homes, and 135 underprivileged or multicultural households in Korea.
After that, the “Save the World” Vision Proclamation was conducted. The WeLoveU made a proclamation on its goals and implementation plans with slogans—“Saving the Earth,” “Saving Lives,” and “Saving Humanity”—in order to show what activities the WeLoveU would do in the future. Then, a large-size ad balloon, where support signatures from the WeLoveU officials and the ambassadors from each country were written, was released into the sky. The participants deeply agreed with the purpose of saving the earth from crisis, and gave a big round of applause to express their determination to make a bright future for everyone on the healthy earth.
With the Chairwoman’s signal to start, the walkathon started. In the midst of the loud and powerful music from the marching band, the members started walking, sharing friendly conversations. Azalea that bloomed in between green trees arrested the eyes of the participants; the participants came back to the square, following a beautiful trail where a stream was flowing.
After having completed the course, the participants experienced a variety of culture at various booths of seven different countries: Fiji, Jordan, Cambodia, and others. In each booth, there were various joyful and beneficial programs introducing well known local products, handicrafts, traditional food and costumes, starting with traditional Korean games experience. In the center of the plaza, there was a panel display that informed of the seriousness of climate disasters and refugee issues around the world, which attracted people’s attention.
H.E. Virgilio Paredes Trapero, Honduran Ambassador to Korea, who participated in the walkathon with his family, said, “The whole world is becoming an interdependent family. Though we have different cultures and languages, we have a common point that we love our families. We are all like one family. I truly give thanks to the WeLoveU for dedicating itself to helping out global villagers.”
Lee Woong-shik (49, from Yeongdengpo, Seoul) expressed his opinion on the walkathon, saying, “Normally, I would be having rest at home by now. But I feel much better today, spending time with my family. It is the best. All the participants are bright with smiles. I feel afresh thanks to them.” Kim Yoo-rah (30, from Paldal, Suwon), who participated in the culture experience with her six-year old daughter, said, “It is my first time to try various foreign foods. I’m so happy that my daughter has learned many new things today, including helping our neighbors. This walkathon will be a good memory for us.”
At the walkathon venue, there was no trace of paper cups, plastic bottles, or wooden chopsticks. The participants brought their own water bottles from home with care for the environment. Majority of them came to the venue, using public transportation; they made a resolution to take the lead in protecting the environment through various small practices such as reducing the usage of disposables.
The world is suffering from environmental pollution and climate change, and people are suffering from various disasters. This day, the participants took a big step towards the goal of saving the earth and mankind.
Family and Neighborly Love, Strengthened Through Diverse Additional Events
“Our promise to the Green Earth,” “Is it convenient for you to use disposables? But I feel ill at ease!”
These were the expressions on the placards made on the theme of “Save the World” by the WeLoveU members who participated in the 20th New Life Family Walkathon; they expressed their wish to cherish the environment. Through additional events such as culture experience and panel display, they took one more step towards caring for global villagers and the earth.
From early in the morning, children visited the event venue, Peace Square; they got face paintings symbolizing the earth and its clean environment on their cheeks. They waited for the paintings to be done in all seriousness. Then, with pride in the paintings, they came out of the booth and visited photo zone, holding their parents’ hands. The photo zone had blue sky and green grass in the background. Many people waited in a long queue to make beautiful memories by taking family photos.
The participants could look around Fiji, Côte d’Ivoire, Jordan, Cambodia, Bangladesh, Laos, and Iraq, starting with Korea, through the culture experience on the theme of “Walk to the World.” In each booth, there were traditional music instruments and costumes prepared by the embassies, which attracted much attention of the participants. They learned about others’ culture and became close.
Lam Pros, Councilor of Cambodian Embassy in Korea, said with delight, “Through the culture experience booths, we could find others’ life patterns and ways of thinking. Using these insights, we can effectively aid countries that are in need of help. Thank you so much for preparing booths introducing traditional Cambodian culture as well.”
Kim Mi-kyeong (45, from Mokdong, Korea) who participated in the culture experience with her two daughters, said, “It helps my children feel that every one of us in the global village is one family without even actually visiting those foreign countries. Not only children but also parents and grandparents are waiting in lines before each booth.” She expressed her gratitude to the WeLoveU for arranging an event that accommodated people of all generations.
In the center of the square, there was a panel display; it showed the difficulties of global villagers, including Gangwondo forest fire victims and child abuse victims in Korea, and war and climate refugees overseas. It showed reasons why we need to help them, making a touching impression in people’s hearts. Yi Bae-keun, President of Korea Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect, said, “Child abuse usually starts at home. Group Homes for child abuse victims solve the victim children’s basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter, and serve as a substitute family providing emotional healing.” He expressed his gratitude to the WeLoveU for supporting the Group Home system. Ambassadors from each country carefully viewed the exhibitions, and agreed to cooperate with the WeLoveU for helping our unfortunate neighbors.
