Post detail page | President of the Republic of Korea > President’s words and writings

To all volunteers around the world, congratulations on hosting the 27th Busan World Volunteer Conference. And we would like to welcome you to Busan, the global hub city of Korea.

The World Volunteer Congress, which started in 1970, is the only international convention in the field of volunteerism. Volunteer leaders from around the world come together to share the global culture of volunteerism and contribute significantly to spreading the spirit of fraternity and solidarity.

This year, we gathered here in Busan under the theme of ‘The power of humanity, a sustainable future created through volunteerism.’ It will be an opportunity for volunteers and experts to share vivid experiences in the field and gain new inspiration through various keynote speeches, forums, and seminars.

I think the best place to see the power of good solidarity is right here in Busan. Just 70 years ago, Busan was a city where refugees gathered from all over the country to escape the devastation of war. Although everyone was difficult and poor, we overcame the wounds of war together by helping, sharing, and caring for each other. Relief supplies and the dedication of volunteers from around the world that came in through the Port of Busan were a great help in helping Korea overcome the hardships of war and get back on its feet.

Today, Busan has developed into a world-class port city and an attractive cultural and tourism city where people from all over the world visit the Busan International Film Festival every year. Beyond its remarkable economic growth, South Korea has leapt into a global cultural powerhouse that brings joy to humanity through K-culture.

South Korea, a poor country that used to receive aid, has now become an aid donor country that helps countries in need. Busan and Korea are vivid proof of how great miracles can occur when we help each other with good will.

We hope that through this conference held in Busan, South Korea, you will see the miracle created by solidarity and cooperation and find a path to a better future through volunteerism.

Dear Volunteers, Humanity is now facing an unprecedented new challenge. Abnormal climate and disasters around the world are making life difficult for humanity, and wars and terrorism occurring around the world are threatening our peaceful lives. In addition, the digital gap and economic inequality are deepening polarization between countries and becoming obstacles to the sustainable prosperity of humanity.

A strong power of solidarity is needed to protect human freedom and prosperity from these challenges and crises. Solidarity at the national and government level is important, but it alone is not enough. It is of utmost importance that free citizens practice the spirit of fraternity and solidarity for their neighbors and communities. Freedom must be followed by solidarity, and the spirit of fraternity and service is the foundation of the liberalism we pursue. Volunteering is the answer.

Now volunteering is not just about helping neighbors, but has developed into a social movement and NGO movement that directly discovers and solves social problems. The United Nations recognizes the importance of volunteerism and has designated 2026 as the International Year of Volunteerism. Volunteering can create a better world, and the international community must join us on the path to a better world. We, the Republic of Korea, will take the lead.

In Korea, there is a long-standing sentiment of sharing and bonding called affection, which is similar to solidarity and fraternity. When our neighbors and village were going through difficulties, we helped each other as if it were our own work, and when doing difficult work such as farming or construction, we continued the tradition of providing labor to each other, called ‘poomasi’ and ‘dure’. When food was scarce, people made kimchi to eat during the winter and ate it together with their neighbors. This kimchi culture is a symbol of the Korean community spirit and has been designated as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

This tradition of solidarity continues to this day and has been a great help in times of national crisis such as disasters. In 2007, a large-scale oil spill occurred off the coast of Taean, South Chungcheong Province. 1.23 million volunteers from all over the country gave up their weekends and even took time off to come to Taean. By removing the oil and cleaning the rocks with their bare hands, they achieved the miracle of restoring the ocean ecosystem in less than a year. When a major disaster such as heavy rain or earthquake occurs, numerous volunteers rush to repair the damage and help the victims.

We are also actively engaged in volunteer work for the international community. During last year’s major earthquake in Turkuye, volunteers provided hope to the victims who lost their homes by supporting emergency relief teams and helping build temporary residential villages. Even now, many Korean volunteers are working hard to help people suffering from disasters such as typhoons and floods around the world.

If this power of solidarity spreads more widely, human life will become brighter and warmer. The Korean government is working to ensure that volunteerism takes deeper root in our society. We enacted the Framework Act on Volunteer Activities and established a volunteer portal system that allows anyone to easily participate in volunteer work anytime, anywhere. In addition, we provide reasonable compensation for damage suffered during volunteer activities and help victims recover from their daily lives. In the future, the Republic of Korea will provide strong support to further spread the volunteer culture not only in our country but also around the world.

We will also greatly increase our helping hand to the international community. Since its launch, our government has nearly doubled its ODA budget. It has also played a leading role and contributed to bridging the development gap, climate gap, and digital gap between countries. We will continue to do so.

We will also spare no effort in supporting the revitalization of volunteerism on a global level. We ask that you please join us in supporting the Republic of Korea’s efforts for the common prosperity of humanity.

Dear volunteers, thank you once again for your dedication to your neighbors and community. We hope that this competition will be a valuable opportunity to strengthen international solidarity and networks among volunteers. Although the competition period is short, we hope you will fully enjoy the beautiful autumn atmosphere of Busan and make many wonderful memories.

Let us all join forces and create a warmer world and a better future together. thank you