Led by Honorary Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah, the International WeLoveU Foundation (hereinafter referred to as “WeLoveU”) carried out the “Sharing the Warmth of Chuseok With Global Family 2023” from September 11 to 14. As part of the initiative, food packages were donated through local governments to support neighbors in need, continuing WeLoveU’s commitment to sharing warmth and care during meaningful moments. On September 11, one of the initiative’s key events, the Sharing the Warmth of Chuseok With Global Family 2023 was held to bring together international residents living in Korea.
A Chuseok Celebration Bringing Together the Global Community
Chuseok, also known as Hangawi, literally means “the middle of the eighth lunar month” and is one of Korea’s most important traditional holidays. Celebrated during the harvest season, when grains and fruits reach full ripeness, Chuseok has long been a time for generous feasts, sharing abundance, and strengthening bonds among families and neighbors. Hosted by WeLoveU, the Chuseok event provided an opportunity for international residents in Korea—members of the global family—to experience Korean culture while feeling a sense of belonging and warmth. The event also aimed to support cultural adaptation and emotional well-being among participants who live far from their home countries.
The convention center at Hanyang University ERICA Campus in Ansan was bustling from early in the day. About 400 people gathered, including international students, foreign workers, and multicultural families from 24 countries such as Mongolia, China, Ecuador, Peru, Ghana, and Kenya, as well as local residents of Ansan. Representatives from the Ansan City Council, the Ansan Cultural Center, and the embassies of Cambodia, the Philippines, and Laos in Korea also attended, sharing heartfelt wishes for a joyful Chuseok.
A Chuseok Event Filled With Warmth and Affection
Everyone gathered here today is a valued member of our global family, which enriches our society through its diversity. We organized this event to offer encouragement and comfort to those who may have endured difficulties and loneliness on their own. I hope this becomes a joyful time to build friendship and love, becoming family and friends to one another.
Zahng Gil-jah, Honorary Chairwoman, International WeLoveU Foundation
The event began with Honorary Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah’s heartfelt welcome. Following the opening ceremony, participants enjoyed a luncheon and a variety of cultural activities A buffet-style meal featuring japchae, galbitang, tangpyeongchae, fried dumplings, and rice cakes allowed attendees to sit side by side, sharing food, conversation, and laughter while creating warm memories together.
Hands-on activity booths offered opportunities to experience traditional Korean culture. Participants tried on hanbok, played traditional games such as jegichagi, made dalgona candy, and enjoyed traditional sweets and freshly made rice cakes. The booths remained lively throughout the event, reflecting the joy of cultural exchange.
United Beyond Borders and Language
Monil, who attended the event with his niece at the invitation of the Embassy of Bangladesh in Korea, shared, “This was my first time wearing hanbok. When the Chairwoman adjusted it for me, it reminded me of my mother back home. Through this event, I was able to learn more about Korea.” William Kuhn, a U.S. service member stationed in Korea, remarked, “I’ve been living in Korea for over two years, and homesickness has been a real challenge. I’m grateful that this Chuseok event was organized for people who are far from home.”
Distinguished guests also expressed appreciation for the welcoming atmosphere created by WeLoveU. Alounkone Bolommavong, Minister-Counselor at the Embassy of Laos in the Republic of Korea, said, “Thanks to the warm-hearted Korean people and the friendly WeLoveU members who treat even first-time visitors like close friends, Lao students in Republic of Korea feel comfortable and supported.” On Sakhsina, First Secretary at the Embassy of Cambodia in Republic of Korea, added, “Thank you for helping international students living abroad feel the warmth of home.”
On this day, WeLoveU provided modest living-support grants to 39 international students through their respective embassies in Korea. In addition, by September 14, food packages totaling 1,500 sets, worth approximately USD 56,000, were donated through public offices to 1,500 households. Beneficiaries included multicultural families, seniors living alone, people with disabilities, single-parent households, and grandparent-headed families. Each package contained convenient meals such as beef porridge, abalone porridge, and dried pollack soup rice, along with essential food items including cooking oil, flour, and glass noodles. Kim Won-kyung, Head of Sinjung-dong in Bucheon, expressed gratitude for WeLoveU’s continued support, noting that the donated food would be distributed evenly to neighbors in need throughout the district.