[Seoul Olympic Park] Review of participation in a meaningful exhibition

This review was provided by a writer who attended the event.

On Saturday, May 25, 2024, I headed to Songpa-gu, Seoul, for an advertising planning meeting. With some time to spare before the meeting, I decided to take a walk in Olympic Park with the PD. As we approached the park, we noticed a crowd of people gathered at the entrance. Curious about the event, we walked closer and saw a representation of the Korean Peninsula adorned with flowers. 

When we asked the guide about it, they explained that HWPL was hosting a ceremony to commemorate the 11th Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of World Peace. Considering the recent conflicts between Russia and Ukraine and the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, an event focused on peace felt particularly significant. We decided to explore the booths a bit more.

The event featured meaningful exhibitions, highlighting the current state of wars around the world, the plight of refugees, and peace efforts, such as those in the Philippines. There was also a booth where visitors could make peace bracelets. A particularly impactful part of the exhibition was the media experience booth, where attendees could experience war from the perspectives of soldiers, pregnant women, and students, bringing the harsh realities of war to life. 

Many people were participating in a booth where peace messages were being written for war-torn Ukraine and the Korean Peninsula, which is currently in a state of ceasefire. It was heartening to see so many people expressing their desire for peace. I, too, left a message, expressing my hopes for a peaceful future.

Looking into the Declaration of World Peace, I discovered that it was announced in 2013 by global youth calling for peace. What stood out was that it detailed the roles individuals from all walks of life could play. Instead of vaguely calling for peace, it provided specific guidance on how to act, which I found intriguing. The peace education materials at the booth reflected this spirit as well, offering step-by-step instructions on how to achieve peace. This made me realize that HWPL is an organization dedicated to peace with a clear and concrete direction.

I was fortunate enough to listen to a lecture by a Korean War veteran. He had served as a student soldier and vividly recounted the horrors of the war. This felt particularly close to me, as my grandfather's generation also lived through the Korean War. It made me realize that the sacrifices of those who risked their lives to protect our country are the reason we are here today. 

Ensuring that the youth who gave their lives for our nation are not forgotten is a responsibility that writers like myself must undertake. With this in mind, I completed a support signature for the DPCW (Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War, an international law for maintenance of peace) before finishing my tour of the booths.

The upcoming month of June is Patriots and Veterans Month dedicated to remembering and honoring those who served our nation. Instead of merely expressing gratitude with words, actively participating in peace initiatives like these is truly commendable. This experience also provided me with inspiration for my next work. I look forward to seeing the continued efforts of HWPL in achieving lasting peace.

Click on the image below to join in the peace efforts.