The Miracle of 1,000 Won Spreads Through Gwangsan District in Gwangju

From a Meal to Coffee
Warm Solidarity for Coexistence

Cheomdan 2-dong in Gwangsan-gu, Gwangju is spreading the warmth of a hearty meal throughout the streets. Through the "1,000 Won Coexistence Street" project, which allows people to enjoy not only affordable meals but also coffee and bread at a low price, the community is paving the way for sharing and solidarity.

Park Byungkyu, mayor of Gwangsan District in Gwangju, is personally serving meals to seniors at 'Cheonwonhankki Cheomdan Branch' located in Cheomdan 2-dong, Gwangsan District, Gwangju, on December 24 last year. Provided by Gwangju Gwangsan District Office

The Cheomdan branch (the 4th location) of Cheonwonhankki opened in December last year. It provides lunch for 1,000 won to the underprivileged and 3,000 won to others. It also creates job opportunities for seniors. Cheomdan 2-dong planned the "1,000 Won Coexistence Street" to expand the sharing spirit of this restaurant to nearby stores.

The core of the project is to build a cooperative network where not only meals but also services like coffee and bread are offered for 1,000 won. Cheomdan 2-dong is working with social organizations and local businesses to discover participating stores. When using the Cheomdan branch of Cheonwonhankki, customers will receive discount coupons that allow them to use services at nearby stores for just 1,000 won as well.

Some coffee shops have already expressed their intention to participate. The main branch of Seogwangju Saemaeul Geumgo has donated 2 million won, and local social organizations are supporting the project by providing side dishes, among other contributions.

Che Donghun, head of Cheomdan 2-dong, said, "We will make sure economically struggling residents can feel more of the '1,000-won warmth,'" and added, "We ask for your active participation in this sharing initiative."