Shincheonji Volunteer Group Songha Branch Brings New Life to Gwangyeong-ri with Cultural Heritage Mural

The Shincheonji Volunteer Group Songha Branch completed a 30-meter mural in Gwangyeong-ri, Hwasun, celebrating the heritage of “Neungju Deulsori” and revitalizing the local community with hope and color.

An illustration depicting a traditional Pungmulnori performance, celebrating community spirit and cultural heritage.

Public art has the power to brighten communities, preserve heritage, and connect people.

Community-centered volunteer projects continue to create meaningful change across many regions. You can also read about another inspiring volunteer activity that brought hope and unity to local residents.

From September 21 to 27, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Songha Branch carried out a meaningful mural project in Gwangyeong-ri, Hwasun County. With over 70 volunteers participating, the 30-meter mural was created to celebrate the region’s cultural identity and deliver a message of hope.

🟩 1. Celebrating Local Heritage: The Story of “Neungju Deulsori”

Gwangyeong-ri is known as the birthplace of Neungju Deulsori, designated as Local Cultural Heritage No. 65.

This traditional folk performance once faced decline due to industrialization, but the dedication of preservation members has kept the tradition alive.

To honor this precious heritage, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Songha Branch illustrated the dynamic scenes of Neungju Deulsori on the mural—featuring performers spinning sangmo hats and playing small gongs, symbolizing abundance, energy, and the spirit of the village.

The preservation of traditional culture through volunteer work is becoming increasingly meaningful in local communities. Related stories about cultural outreach and community service can also be explored here.

🟩 2. A Mural Filled with Hope: The “Star Tree of Wishes”

One section of the wall features the “Star Tree of Hope,” painted with 12 vibrant colors.

Glow-in-the-dark stars represent the hopes and dreams of local residents, expressing the wish that the rhythms of Neungju Deulsori will shine and spread throughout the nation like starlight.

🟩 3. A Carefully Crafted Community  Artwork

The mural project was carried out in a structured process—from wall preparation and painting to detailed illustration and protective coating.

Volunteers also plan to continue maintenance to ensure the artwork remains a bright symbol for the village.

On the 26th, preservation members of Neungju Deulsori held an energetic performance, filling the village with the sounds of joy.

Residents and volunteers joined hands, wishing for abundance, safety, and unity.

🟩 4. Voices from the Community

One resident shared:

“We were worried about flooding and the harvest this year, but seeing this beautiful mural warms our hearts. I hope Neungju Deulsori becomes more widely known and remembered.”

A volunteer in his twenties added:

“Even though the elders were busy with harvest season, they cheered us on. I hope this mural gives them strength and hope.”

A Songha Branch representative stated that the mural was created to honor the tradition of Neungju Deulsori and to bring prosperity and hope to the village — and promised continued community-centered volunteer work.

The Shincheonji Volunteer Group Songha Branch has once again demonstrated how art can preserve cultural identity and uplift communities.

Through collaboration, creativity, and heartfelt volunteer spirit, the mural now stands as a symbol of unity and hope for Gwangyeong-ri.

If you are interested in more stories about volunteerism, and community impact, you may also enjoy reading the related articles below.

📎 Related News Article: Read more about the volunteer project here.

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