Changwon Saemaeul Association Carries Out Saemaeul Movement Activities in Vientiane, Laos

Road Paving and Korean Cultural Exchange
Expanding Various International Cooperation Initiatives

The Changwon City Saemaeul Association in South Gyeongsang Province announced on April 29 that from April 26 to May 1, it is carrying out the "2026 International Cooperation Exchange Program" in Vientiane, Laos, with the participation of over 20 Saemaeul leaders for a 6-day, 4-night period.

Changwon Saemaeul Association Spreads Global Saemaeul Movement in Vientiane, Laos.
Photo by Changwon City

The Saemaeul leaders visited Xiangda Village in Saysettha District, Vientiane, where they repaired aging roads and directly participated in road paving work. The purpose of this activity was to resolve the inconvenience faced by residents during rainy weather and to significantly improve pedestrian safety and mobility. The focus was on tangible improvements in the daily living environment of the local residents.

In addition, they distributed 100 sets of school supplies to local children and hosted experiential activities introducing Korean traditional games such as Yutnori and Jegichagi, which helped deepen mutual cultural understanding. In particular, they also held programs such as making kimchi, Korea's representative dish, providing a valuable opportunity to introduce the taste and culture of Korean food to the local community.

Chairman Hong Panchul stated, "This volunteer activity became an opportunity to communicate sincerely with the local residents and gain a deep understanding of each other's cultures. Going forward, we will continue to share the successful experience of the Saemaeul Movement and pursue ongoing sharing activities, contributing to the development of a global community."

Jung Soongil, Director of Autonomous Administration, commented, "The activities sharing the Saemaeul spirit abroad each year are evolving beyond simple volunteer work, becoming opportunities to learn about the cultures of different countries and to grow together. Changwon City will continue to actively support the Saemaeul Association's international cooperation exchange programs so these efforts can be sustained."

Meanwhile, the Changwon City Saemaeul Association has been steadily strengthening its ties with the international community, not only through domestic community service but also by carrying out environmental improvement projects and cultural exchanges in underdeveloped regions overseas each year.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.