Goseong-gun, "Stay Healthy" ... Longevity Cane Presented to 100-Year-Old Senior

In Celebration of the 27th Senior Citizens' Day
Presentation of Longevity Congratulatory Cards to the President and First Lady

Goseong-gun, Gyeongnam Province, commemorated the 27th Senior Citizens' Day on the 19th by visiting the homes of elders who turned 100 this year and personally delivering longevity canes (Cheongryeojang) along with congratulatory cards from the President and First Lady.

Jo Yong-jeong, Deputy Governor of Goseong County, Gyeongnam, is presenting a longevity cane to a centenarian.

The longevity cane presented this time has been given by the government to centenarians since 1993 in celebration of Senior Citizens' Day. Made from a lightweight and sturdy plant called Korean millet, it is known as a symbol of health and longevity. Traditional medical texts such as Bonchogangmok record its efficacy in preventing strokes and relieving neuralgia.

In particular, from the Unified Silla period to the Joseon Dynasty, it was said that the state provided a cane at age 70, called Gukjang (national cane), and at age 80, the king bestowed a cane called Jojang (royal cane), as recorded in the Samguk Sagi and Gyeongguk Daejeon.

Elder Kang, who received the cane upon turning 100, said, “I am grateful for the personal visit to deliver the longevity cane. I will cherish and use it well.”

Deputy Governor Jo Yong-jeong said, “I sincerely congratulate the elders who have reached 100 years in good health. The county will do its best in senior welfare policies to foster a society that respects elders and to ensure that they can enjoy a comfortable and happy later life.”