Honoring National Spirit and Peace: HWPL and Hanmin Dojeon Mark Korea’s Foundation Day

On October 2, the Hanmin Dojeon organization, together with the international peace NGO Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), hosted a commemorative ceremony for Korea’s Foundation Day (Gaecheonjeol) in Cheongju. The event highlighted both the historical significance of the national holiday and the urgent call for peaceful unification of the Korean Peninsula.

A Day of History and Hope

Foundation Day is not only the anniversary of Korea’s founding by Dangun Wanggeom, but also a celebration of national identity and spirit. Even during colonial hardship, Koreans preserved the values of independence and resilience. The ceremony reminded participants that these values remain central to modern democracy, economic growth, and the pursuit of peace.

Over 150 attendees, including leaders from civic, social, and religious groups, joined the event. The program featured cultural performances, keynote lectures, and special peace messages.

Key Messages from Leaders

• Kim Ok-sun, President of Hanmin Dojeon, emphasized that Gaecheonjeol is a historical starting point where “heaven, earth, and humanity came into harmony.” She called for the practical application of the Hongik Ingan spirit (“to benefit all mankind”) in daily life, saying that unification must be built on respect and shared identity.

• Byun Jae-jun, Director of HWPL Global Region 10, highlighted that peace and unification are not merely political goals but a cultural process of mutual respect. He urged Koreans to inherit Dangun’s spirit by walking the path of reconciliation together.

The event also included a special performance titled “Where is the Train Going?” that symbolized hope for a united and peaceful future.

Beyond Commemoration

Organizers expressed their wish for Foundation Day to be more than a historical remembrance: a cultural platform for peace, unity, and coexistence. HWPL, a UN-affiliated NGO registered with ECOSOC and DGC, continues to expand international efforts for peace, while Hanmin Dojeon works to preserve Korean identity and promote the ideals of Hongik Ingan in modern society.

Source: https://vo.la/yELkQIM