Honoring the Living History: Shincheonji Hwagok Church Preserving the Legacy of Korean War Veterans

While spring has arrived with blooming flowers, many Korean War veterans still live in a "cold winter" of loneliness and poverty. As the generation that witnessed the tragedy of war rapidly fades, the Bartholomew Tribe Hwagok Church has stepped up, not just with supplies, but with a heart for true peace.

The Urgency of "Now": A Race Against Time

To understand the significance of this work, we must look at the numbers. According to the Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, of the 900,000 soldiers who fought in the Korean War, only about 30,216 remain today—a staggering 96.6% decrease.

With an average age of 93, these heroes are often left in the shadows of society. "I can still hear my comrades crying out for help amidst the shells," shares Lim Jeong-taek, head of the Yangcheon branch of the Veterans Association. Recognizing this urgency, Shincheonji Hwagok Church has dedicated the past five years to ensuring these voices are heard before they disappear forever.


Healing Beyond Borders: More Than Just Material Aid

Since 2021, the Hwagok Church has moved beyond simple donations to focus on psychological recovery.

  • Companion Plants for Peace: Starting in 2024, the church began delivering "air-purifying plants" to veterans. For these aging heroes, a simple pot of greenery represents life and renewal, helping to soothe the traumatic memories of the past.

  • A Warm Touch in Winter: Every November, volunteers deliver handmade Kimchi to veteran households. More than the food itself, it is the personal visits that matter. "Their meticulous care is a great encouragement," says Chairman Lim, recalling how veterans often hold the hands of young volunteers, reluctant to let go.


Passing the Torch: Teaching Peace to the Next Generation

Peace is not a gift; it is a legacy that must be protected. Shincheonji Hwagok Church actively bridges the gap between generations. Last May, they invited Chairman Lim to speak to 40 young church members.

He shared raw, firsthand accounts of fighting as a 17-year-old student soldier. His message was clear: "Peace is not achieved by words alone; it must be protected through action." This living testimony moved the youth, reminding them that their daily freedom was bought with the sacrifice of those before them.

A Commitment to Action

Under the leadership of Head Lecturer Baek Do-hun, Hwagok Church remains committed to this mission. From security education for youth to recording the testimonies of veterans, their work is a powerful reminder that faith is most beautiful when it serves the forgotten.

By honoring the heroes of the past, we are not just looking back—we are building a foundation for a peaceful future.



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