Korean Red Cross, 'Todak Todak Campaign' to Overcome COVID Blue

by Moon Hyewon

Published 11 Sep.2020 16:41(KST)

Korean Red Cross, 'Todak Todak Campaign' to Overcome COVID Blue

[Asia Economy Reporter Moon Hyewon] The Korean Red Cross announced on the 11th that it will launch the 'Todak Todak Campaign' to provide mental care for citizens experiencing 'Corona Blue (depression)' due to the spread of COVID-19 and the prolonged social distancing measures.

The Todak Todak Campaign is an online self-care campaign that encourages and supports oneself who is going through difficult days due to COVID-19 by performing the ‘Nabi Pooong Method,’ a psychological stabilization technique that involves hugging and comforting oneself.

Participants in this campaign include the Red Cross goodwill ambassador, popera tenor Lim Hyung-joo, and promotional ambassadors such as actor Ryu Soo-young, singers Kim Tae-woo, Soyou, Jung Se-woon, and the announcer couple Jo Choong-hyun and Kim Min-jung. The campaign will also be expanded nationwide through 1,428 counselors at the Red Cross Disaster Psychological Recovery Support Centers, as well as Red Cross staff, volunteers, and RCY members.

To participate in the campaign, individuals take a photo performing the ‘Nabi Pooong Method’ by crossing their arms to hug and pat themselves, then post it on social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook with the campaign hashtags (#토닥토닥캠페인, #토닥토닥챌린지), tagging at least two other participants by their IDs.

The Red Cross plans to provide selected participants with commemorative gifts.

Shin Hee-young, president of the Red Cross, said, “Many citizens are experiencing depression and stress due to refraining from going out, gatherings, and outdoor activities such as exercise,” adding, “We hope that through the Todak Todak Campaign, people will recover their mental health and the overall social atmosphere will regain vitality.”