Expanding Social Contribution Through the Launch of the Central Union's Volunteer Organization
"A Leap Toward a Transparent, Responsible, and Action-Oriented Community"
The Chinese Korean community has taken its first step into the new year with the keywords of "solidarity" and "sharing." This was not just a simple New Year's greeting, but a declaration of their determination to become a pillar of the local community.
Launch of New Year's Volunteer Group in Daerim-dong, Seoul Declares Support for Welfare Blind Spots and Strengthening of Korea-China Exchange Platform Photo by Byeonggeon Kwon
On January 31, the Central Union of Chinese Koreans held the "2026 New Year's Gathering and Parancheonsa Launch Ceremony" at Yanbian Wedding Hall in Daerim-dong, Guro-gu, Seoul, officially committing to strengthening solidarity within the community and expanding social contribution.
More than 300 people attended the event, including executives and members of the Central Union, local politicians and government officials, and representatives of the Chinese expatriate community, to share their vision for the new year.
The highlight of the event was the inauguration of the volunteer organization "Parancheonsa." This action-oriented volunteer platform is designed to directly assist neighbors who fall through the cracks of the welfare system, such as patients with rare and incurable diseases, elderly people living alone, and multicultural families. It marks a symbolic starting point for the Chinese Korean community to step forward not as passive recipients but as active contributors.
"A community is built not with words, but with hands." In her welcoming speech, President Kim Mijeong stated, "Today is not just a simple New Year's gathering, but a historic moment signaling a new leap forward for our community." She added, "Parancheonsa marks the beginning of a warm community where we embrace one another." She further emphasized, "We will become a transparent and robust organization that brings hope and change to our community."
President Kim Jaedeok also remarked, "The Central Union has served as both a pillar of the Chinese Korean community and a bridge for Korea-China exchange," and pledged, "We will enhance our status as an action-oriented organization that finds answers on the ground."
He particularly stressed, "A community grows not with words, but with hands. The more hands we join together, the stronger we become. Parancheonsa is the starting point of those helping hands."
Local Government and Political Leaders: "The Chinese Korean Community as a Partner in Regional Development" In his congratulatory address, Choi Hokwon, Mayor of Yeongdeungpo-gu, said, "The Central Union of Chinese Koreans has consistently contributed to local volunteer work and cultural exchange. The launch of Parancheonsa is a meaningful step that will make our community even warmer."
Jang Inheung, Mayor of Guro-gu, also commented, "Now, you are not just supporters of the community, but key players. I hope you will grow into a central force leading regional development through exchange and cooperation." Political leaders also expressed their consensus on expanding the social role of the Chinese Korean community and promised continued cooperation.
Opening 2026 with the "Power of Solidarity" On January 31, the event was filled with words of encouragement and applause, but the atmosphere was more serious than ever. There was a shared sense that the community is moving beyond "settlement" to a stage of "responsibility and contribution."
From Helping Fellow Koreans to Leading Fellow Koreans: The Central Union of Chinese Koreans 'Parancheonsa' Opens a New Era for the Community. Photo by Byunggeon Kwon
Starting this year, Parancheonsa plans to work with local welfare institutions to launch regular sponsorships, provide emergency livelihood support, and engage in cultural sharing activities. The aim is to create a structure where the community naturally connects with the local society through volunteer work.
The maturity of the community is measured not by "how much it is protected," but by "how much responsibility it shares." The launch of Parancheonsa marks that turning point. The hands that once reached out for help are now being extended to help neighbors. When the community shines on its own, the region becomes brighter as well. It remains to be seen whether the Central Union of Chinese Koreans' decision in 2026 will become the new standard for the community.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
