The hidden symbol of peace in Mongolia, a place we really want to visit someday

 [HWPL] The hidden symbol of peace in Mongolia, a place we really want to visit someday

On May 9th, a special event took place in a quiet village on the vast Mongolian steppe. About 400 students, local residents, and education officials gathered at the 1st Middle School in Bulgan Sum of Khövsgöl Aimag to share an unforgettable moment at the unveiling ceremony of the Peace Monument.

That day was not simply an event to unveil a statue. It was a day when a village came together to say to the world, "We believe in peace. And we want to share that belief with the world."

This event was the result of HWPL and the school working hand in hand. It will resonate deeply not only with those who attended that day but also with everyone who will encounter this monument in the future. Now, the peace monument standing tall in a corner of the school is telling us that it is entirely possible to live together harmoniously and peacefully, even with different cultures, languages, and ways of thinking.

Principal Sodno Bayarsaikhan, who was at the centre of this Peace Monument project, spoke earnestly. "This monument is not just a sculpture, but a symbol for future generations. In a time when people from all over the world live and move freely, I hope that travellers from not only Mongolia but also the United States, Japan, and Korea will see this monument and feel, 'This is the land of peace.'"

This dream does not stop here. The principal announced that they will include the HWPL peace education programme in the regular curriculum so that all students can learn about peace. Furthermore, they hope that this education will spread beyond the school to the whole community.

On the day of the event, the students sang the song 'Peace Dove' to convey a message of hope and solidarity. It was a strong declaration that went beyond a simple performance, showing that the next generation is ready to inherit the spark of peace.

The education officer of Ganchimek Urtanasan has added to the uniqueness of this area. Bulgansom is a region where the Turgut and Kazakh peoples live together. Their languages, cultures, and ways of life are different, but the people here have always lived warmly and peacefully. "This monument embodies our hope to continue living this way in the future."

The impact of this event will not be limited to just one day. HWPL plans to continuously deliver peace education throughout the schools and communities in this region. Now that the Mongolian government has introduced 'citizen ethics education', a special opportunity has arisen for a culture of peace to grow not only through institutions but also from within the hearts of the people.

So the next time you hear the word ‘Mongolia’, please do not just think of the grasslands and horses, but also remember this small school. Bulgan Sum No. 1 Middle School, the children singing peace, the towering peace monument, and the quietly emerging changes in peace education.

And perhaps, a small step towards peace may begin in your life as you read this.

👉 Official Event Page: http://314dpcw.org/

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Where Joseon’s Humility Breathes, Daejeon Dongchundang

[korea] Where Joseon’s Humility Breathes, Daejeon Dongchundang

Located in Songchon-dong, Hoedeok, in the quiet downtown area of ​​Daejeon Metropolitan City, South Korea, ‘Dongchundang (同春堂)’ is a place that makes you feel as if you have stepped back in time to the Joseon Dynasty. It is neither splendid nor grandiose, but the spirit and architectural beauty contained within it are rather simple and noble, deeply resonating with the hearts of those who see it.

This is a detached building built in 1643 by Dongchundang Song Jun-gil (1606–1672), a scholar and high-ranking official in the mid-Joseon Dynasty, when he was 38 years old. It was originally built by his father Song I-chang, but it was moved to its current location and rebuilt, completing the current ‘Dongchundang.’ Afterwards, in 1678, after the death of Song Jun-gil, his close friend and representative of Joseon Confucianism, Song Si-yeol, wrote a plaque that read ‘Dongchundang’ to further solidify the identity of the building.

‘Dongchun (同春)’ means ‘spring with all things’. This phrase contains the ideal of a scholar who wanted to live as one with nature. Confucian scholars at the time were wary of extravagant lives and considered frugality a virtue. That’s why Dongchundang’s ondol room did not have a separate chimney, but only had a small hole in the bottom side of the building to let out smoke. By keeping the smoke out, it perfectly embodies the humility of the era when it was considered shameful to enjoy warmth.

The building structure is also simple and modest. It is 3 kan in the front and 2 kan on the side, with 4 kan on the right as a wooden floor and 2 kan on the left as an ondol room. The front, back, and sides of the house are surrounded by a porch, and when the door is opened, the inside and outside become one space, without any boundaries with nature. Sometimes, the wisdom of Joseon, which chose wind and sunlight over walls, permeates this place.

During the roof repair process that took place between 2012 and 2013, the 1617 Sangryangmun, the 1649 relocation record, and the 1709 repair details were confirmed. In this way, Dongchundang is not just a building, but also a record of ‘life and spirit’ that has endured in the same place through three eras.

Dear readers from overseas, there is such architecture in Korea. A house that puts the heart before the exterior, and teaches humility over convenience. Under a roof that tries not to stand out, the breath of a scholar who loved learning and embraced people still remains.

This is Korea Dongchundang. If you have a chance to travel to Daejeon, be sure to stop by this place where you can spend a quiet and elegant time in the middle of a bustling city. The heart of an old scholar who wanted to keep his essence even in a busy world will quietly welcome you.

*The above text is [full text] translated by 'Google Translate'. 'Google Translate' is working to improve comprehension. Please note that there may be errors in the English translation.

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Yorosso, Mali Declares “Peace Day” – A New Milestone for DPCW

Yorosso, Mali Declares “Peace Day” – A New Milestone for DPCW

On May 26, 2024, the Yorosso City Council in Mali unanimously passed a customary resolution reflecting the principles of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW), spearheaded by HWPL.
This is the first instance where a resolution based on DPCW has been passed on the African continent, marking an important milestone in citizen-led peacebuilding.

This resolution was not from a unilateral decision by the administrative agency, but through ongoing civic participation dialogue among the local residents.
The final resolution was adopted at a special meeting of the Yoroso City Council, attended by the mayor and 23 city councillors.
The resolution is based on Article 10 of the DPCW, 'Equal Participation of Citizens and the Promotion of a Culture of Peace.'
Accordingly, Yorososhi has officially designated May 25 as 'Yorososhi Peace Day'.

This goes beyond a simple anniversary and serves as a foundation for practical peace movements, including peace education, youth activities, and cultural programmes.
Yoroso will officially recognise HWPL Malij Branch as a co-partner peace organisation and plans to cooperate in various peace projects in the future.
The real significance of this resolution is that it was created by the local residents themselves.

Since the beginning of 2023, HWPL's Maliji branch has consistently continued citizen-led dialogues, peace education, youth workshops, and street cleaning activities without permanent staff.
Such models demonstrate that peace can be initiated voluntarily from within the community rather than being created by external pressures.
HWPL's approach is based on the values of partnership, listening, and shared responsibility, which are also key elements that made this resolution possible.

In the future, Yorososhi is preparing follow-up activities such as a cultural festival to resolve intergenerational conflicts, documenting local traditions, and strengthening the peaceful identity of the community.
This resolution is a historic turning point that presents new possibilities for building peace governance not only in Mali but across Africa.
In a time when division and conflict are intensifying, the case of Yoroso tells us that peace is possible and it starts with ourselves.

🌈 Official Event Page: http://314dpcw.org

🌈 Together Campaign: Connect Korea:http://togetherconnectkorea.kr

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A Hidden Korean Gem in Daejeon: Daechan Donkatsu, Where Portions Are No Joke

A Hidden Korean Gem in Daejeon: Daechan Donkatsu, Where Portions Are No Joke

If you ever travel to South Korea and find yourself in Daejeon, make sure to visit Daechan Donkatsu in Galma-dong. It's a hidden gem known for its unbelievably generous portions and rich flavors — a combination that's getting harder to find these days.

The name "Daechan" literally means “bold” or “big-scale” in Korean, and it lives up to that title. My friend and I found this place while hunting for lunch, and we were blown away by the size of the portions.

We ordered a classic pork cutlet and a spicy version — both deep-fried to crispy perfection. The portions were huge, easily double what you'd expect at a typical restaurant. Halfway through, we were already full.

Even better, the owner kindly packed our leftovers without us even asking. That level of hospitality, paired with great food, made this meal unforgettable.

The restaurant is run by a single chef-owner, so during peak hours, a short wait might happen. But every dish is prepared with care, and it's worth every minute.

Daechan Donkatsu uses premium Jeju black pork loin, prepared in-house. The batter is crispy, the meat is juicy with no unpleasant smell, and the sauce — made fresh every morning — is tangy, sweet, and surprisingly deep in flavor.

The spicy version has a kick, but it's not overwhelming — just enough to make you want another bite. Bonus: all sides, soup, and sauce are refillable.

The atmosphere is casual and homey — perfect for families or travelers looking for a hearty, authentic Korean meal. Kids will love the mild classic donkatsu, while spice lovers will be drawn to the spicy one.

If you're craving an unforgettable donkatsu experience in Korea, Daechan Donkatsu is the place. Delicious, affordable, and served with care — this is what Korean comfort food is all about.

Daechan Donkatsu

Opening Hours: Weekdays & Sunday 11:00–21:00 (Closed Saturdays)

Address: 6-4 Galmajung-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon (1st floor, Seojin Villa)

Parking: Limited public parking in front

Phone: 0507-1355-8392

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[Connect Korea] Walk Together with Donghaeng – Take the Peace Test “How Old Is My Worry?”

[Connect Korea] Walk Together with Donghaeng – Take the Peace Test “How Old Is My Worry?”

Peace Begins with Understanding 

True peace is not simply the absence of war. It's the presence of empathy, understanding, and shared dreams.

The Connect Korea campaign invites you to walk together toward harmony—no matter where we come from.

What Is Donghaeng?

Donghaeng means “walking together” in Korean.

It represents a growing movement for peace and unity across the Korean Peninsula.

It’s not about politics—it’s about people. We believe that change can begin with a conversation, a walk, or even a thought.

Take the Peace Psychology Test 

Curious about what’s in your mind? Take this simple yet powerful quiz:

👉 How Old Is My Worry?

It’s a fun and meaningful way to check what peace means to you.

Your result might surprise you—and it maybe even inspire you of  conversating about healing and hope.

Connect Hearts, Walk Together

Imagine a future that the Korean Peninsula is united—not by force, but by understanding.

Connect Korea is not just a campaign. It’s a global invitation to walk in peace—step by step, together.

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Discover Young 月 Wi Park – A Revived Art Haven in Yeongwol, South Korea

Discover Young 월 Wi Park – A Revived Art Haven in Yeongwol, South Korea

In the scenic heart of Gangwon-do province, amid rolling hills and lush forests, lies an extraordinary cultural destination: Young 월 Wi Park, commonly known as Young Dal Wi Park. This dynamic art complex transforms the former Sulsaem Museum—a once-abandoned liquor museum in Jucheon-myeon, Yeongwol—into a beating heart of contemporary creativity. A must-visit for any traveler seeking South Korea's hidden gems.

From Abandoned to Alive

Young Dal Wi Park sprang to life by repurposing the old Sulsaem Museum as an immersive art space. What once held spirits now holds inspiration. With galleries, workshops, and modern sculptures, the park showcases the region's artistic pulse. Among its standout features is the towering red land-art structure, designed by acclaimed artist Choi Ok‑young, evoking cosmic movement and inviting visitors to feel as though they're walking through space. 

A Media-Favorite Destination

You might recognize Young Dal Wi Park from its appearance in KBS's popular travel show "2 Days & 1 Night" Episode 159—a pilgrimage spot for MZ-generation viewers who follow trending Korean media. 

What to Explore

The park is large and divided into ten unique zones, each offering a distinct artistic or cultural experience:

Modern art galleries featuring rotating exhibitions

Woodcraft and metal labs, where skilled artisans craft beautiful objects

The revitalized Sulsaem Museum, celebrating both traditional and contemporary themes

Land art installations, including Choi's signature red pavilion, bamboo-inspired structures, and other site-specific works that blur architecture and sculpture 

Why It's Worth Visiting

Art Meets Nature: A fusion of modern installations with natural landscapes. Each step through the park reveals artworks designed to harmonize with the environment.

Photographer's Dream: Dramatic backdrops, vibrant art, and open-air spaces make it ideal for creative photography.

Cultural Authenticity: This isn't a tourist trap; it's a living cultural venue beloved by locals and art lovers.

Family-Friendly & Educational: With workshops in traditional crafts, it's perfect for curious travelers and families.

Practical Tips

Ticketing: Official discounts are available on the Young Dal Wi Park website. Advance booking recommended. 

Best Time for Photos: Mid-morning provides soft light and fewer crowds, perfect for both photography and peaceful exploration.

Opening Hours: Usually 10 AM to 6 PM, with last admission around 5 PM—check their website for updates. 

Getting There

The park is located at:

1467‑9 Songhak‑Jucheon‑ro, Jucheon‑myeon, Yeongwol‑gun, Gangwon‑do, South Korea

It's best reached by car or local bus from Yeongwol station. For longer stays, consider exploring other Gangwon-do must‑visit spots like Pyeongchang, Samcheok, and Seoraksan National Park.

Young Dal Wi Park isn't just another stop—it's an invitation. Here, forgotten architecture becomes a stage for avant-garde art; the line between exhibit and environment blurs. Whether you're a traveler chasing South Korea's offbeat destinations, a photo enthusiast, or an art lover, this space will spark your curiosity and delight your senses.

Make sure to add Young Dal Wi Park to your list of South Korea hidden gems—it's a place that surprises and inspires in equal measure.

*The above text is [full text] translated by 'Google Translate'. 'Google Translate' is working to improve comprehension. Please note that there may be errors in the English translation.

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