한국국제교류재단

Where does a volunteer’s strength come from? In search of an answer to this question, members of the Korea Foundation Volunteer Network (KFVN) conduct a general workshop every year. With over 40 members in attendance, this year’s workshop kicked off with everyone’s recognition of the notable achievements of the four KF teams (Korean Language Class Team, Korean Culture Class Team, Event Planning Team, Education and Promotion Team) during the first half of 2015. This was followed by a discussion of plans for the latter half of the year. After having marked its 10-year anniversary and greatly expanding its range of activities, the KFVN will now endow the individual teams with greater autonomy hereafter, along with a focus on enhancing international exchange. During the workshop’s second half, Lee Chang-deok of the Korea NGO Council for Overseas Development Cooperation inspired the attendees with a special lecture on global citizenship. Based on his personal experiences, he emphasized the importance of international exchange, which allows volunteers and recipients to learn from each other on an equal footing. The workshop concluded with a charity fundraiser to provide assistance to the earthquake victims in Nepal, with all proceeds being turned over to the relief effort in the name of the KFVN and other contributors. In response to the question posed above, perhaps a volunteer’s strength comes from the sense of warmth that comes from giving and sharing.

KFNV Reporter
Kim Hyemi