On January 15, 2026, the Hanam branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group visited the Ecotown 3rd Complex Senior Center in Sinjang-dong, Hanam, to share tteokguk (Korean rice cake soup) with local seniors as part of a New Year volunteer activity.
The event was organized to help senior residents begin the year with a warm, shared meal and meaningful social interaction.
Preparing and Serving a Traditional New Year Meal
Volunteers from the Hanam branch prepared the tteokguk on site at the senior center and served the meal individually to each attendee. While sharing the meal, volunteers and seniors engaged in conversation, creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
One senior participant commented that sharing tteokguk together at the start of the year brought a sense of comfort and reassurance.
In Korean tradition, tteokguk is associated with wishes for health, longevity, and a positive beginning to the year, which formed the basis for planning the activity.
Additional Activities and Ongoing Engagement
Following the meal, volunteers and seniors participated in yutnori (a traditional Korean board game). The event also included massage and grooming services, providing additional opportunities for care and interaction.
A volunteer who participated in the activity shared that spending time with the seniors reminded her of her own parents and made the experience personally meaningful, as it allowed her to share warmth and connection with neighbors in the community.
Recognition for Continued Volunteer Service
During the event, the senior center presented a certificate of appreciation to the Hanam branch in recognition of its consistent volunteer service over the past three years. According to the senior center, the branch’s regular visits and continued engagement contributed to building trust and familiarity with local residents.
A representative of the Hanam branch explained that the tteokguk sharing was planned not only as a meal service, but as an opportunity for emotional exchange with seniors. The representative added that the branch intends to continue organizing activities that allow for regular interaction with older residents in the area.
By combining food preparation, traditional activities, and personal interaction, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Hanam Branch’s New Year event reflected a people-centered approach to community care focused on continuity and respect.
Source: https://vo.la/WDY58TD
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