Shincheonji Volunteer Group Revitalizes Traditional Markets Through the “Let’s Go Shopping in Donghae!” Campaign
The Shincheonji Volunteer Group Donghae Branch held a citizen-participation market revitalization campaign, encouraging local shopping at Donghae’s Jungang Market with cultural programs, volunteerism, and community engagement.
Traditional markets across Korea continue to face challenges due to economic downturns and shifting consumer habits. To help breathe life back into the local economy, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Donghae Branch organized a dynamic community campaign titled “Donghae, Shall We Go Shopping at the Traditional Market?”, successfully drawing enthusiastic participation from citizens.
Held on the 25th at Donghae Jungang Market, the event focused on creating a warm and lively marketplace atmosphere where residents could enjoy nostalgia, culture, and meaningful local engagement.
1. A Citizen-Led Shopping & Experience Campaign
From 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., the event operated under the slogan:
“When the market thrives, neighbors thrive, Donghae thrives, and we thrive.”
Participants visited shops, interacted with merchants, and embraced “kind consumption,” all while enjoying themed programs such as:
Traditional market shopping support
“You Quiz” market trivia game
Nostalgic raffle booth & cotton candy experience
Retro fashion contest
Cultural performances and live events
By combining community bonding with hands-on activities, the campaign highlighted the beauty and value of supporting local merchants.
2. Revitalizing the Local Economy Through Social Contribution
This campaign was part of an ongoing effort to support the traditional marketplace ecosystem. Its objectives included:
Improving parking conditions
Modernizing facilities
Increasing foot traffic through entertainment and events
Boosting merchant–customer interaction
By enhancing both the physical environment and the customer experience, the campaign aimed to create a market culture where visitors naturally return.
A participating citizen shared,
“There was so much to enjoy, and I even received gifts. I truly feel campaigns like this help our local community.”
3. Extension of Donghae Branch’s Ongoing Public Service
The Shincheonji Volunteer Group Donghae Branch has already been recognized for consistent community service programs such as:
“Green, Dear Nature” environmental campaign
Coastal cleaning initiative “Marine Trash, Go Away!”
Heatwave relief bottled-water service
Waste-sorting awareness events
These efforts have strengthened trust with local residents and demonstrated a long-term commitment to coexistence and community well-being.
The Donghae Branch expressed,
“Revitalizing the traditional market is essential for a thriving community. This campaign was a meaningful step in spreading awareness that when markets live, communities live.”
The branch leader added,
“We are grateful that various booths and programs drew many citizens to the market. We will continue serving as the ‘light and salt’ of the community.”
The “Let’s Go Shopping in Donghae!” campaign led by the Shincheonji Volunteer Group showcased the power of voluntary participation in reviving local markets. By uniting cultural experiences, warm interactions, and mindful consumption, the campaign brought renewed vitality to Donghae’s traditional market and strengthened the sense of community.
As economic challenges persist, such initiatives prove that when neighbors come together, the entire region can thrive.
📎 Related News Article: Read more about the volunteer project here.
Comments
Post a Comment