Shifting to Preemptive Mitigation: Shincheonji Western Seoul Alliance Executes Large-Scale Urban Flood Prevention Operations

Addressing Infrastructure Blind Spots Through Systematic Maintenance While localized torrential rains have become increasingly common due to climate change, maintaining the cleanliness of urban drainage infrastructure remains a critical challenge for disaster prevention. According to a 2025 analysis by the Seoul Institute, the primary cause of drainage failures during the severe August 2022 floods in Seoul's Gangnam and Sillim-dong districts was the accumulation of debris, leaf litter, and cigarette butts in storm drains. When these drains function as street waste bins, rainwater backs up into residential zones instead of discharging into the sewer system. Recognizing that relying solely on public administrative personnel leaves physical blind spots across the city, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Seoul-Gyeonggi Western Alliance institutionalized a preemptive environmental purification framework. This program prioritizes proactive disaster mitigation over post-disaster recovery to...

Capturing the Voices of Heroes: Shincheonji Volunteer Group’s Special Tribute to War Veterans

Beyond Service: Honoring the Living History

On March 17, the Gogyang Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group visited the Gogyang City chapter of the 6.25 Veterans Association of Korea. While their monthly visits began as a simple hair-cutting (barber) service, they have evolved into a profound project: recording the legacies of local heroes.


From Grooming to Heart-to-Heart Conversations

The atmosphere at the veterans' office transformed as volunteers set up their equipment. After receiving haircuts, the veterans looked in the mirror with bright smiles, receiving applause from their fellow comrades. Cho Choon-sik, the head of the Gogyang City chapter, expressed his gratitude, noting that these volunteers have become "thankful regulars" who have served over 100 veterans since last year.

However, the highlight of the day was the "Conversation Cards" session. Volunteers asked thought-provoking questions such as:

  • "What was your dream in your youth?"

  • "What strength helped you endure the most difficult times?"

As the veterans shared stories of their past dreams—aspiring to be professors, judges, or public servants—the room was filled with a sense of connection. One veteran, known for being quiet, opened up about his "youth full of dreams," surprising even his long-time friends.

A Message to the Younger Generation

When asked what they wished to say to today's youth, the veterans offered sincere advice. Having risked their lives at a young age to protect the nation, they encouraged the younger generation to stay socially conscious and work toward building a better, more stable world.

Preserving the Legacy through Video

The Gogyang Branch doesn't just let these stories fade away. Using handycams and microphones, they document these interviews to create video content. In a previous session, the veterans were moved to see themselves on screen, with many asking for copies to keep as family heirlooms.

"We want to ensure that this service isn't just a one-time event," a representative from the Gogyang Branch stated. "By archiving these stories, we hope to remind the community of the noble spirit of patriotism and honor the heroes living right here in Gogyang."


Source: https://vo.la/xhJZ6OV


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