Shincheonji Volunteer Group Revitalizes Okpo Traditional Market

 

Shincheonji Volunteer Group volunteers carry out a Community Cleanup at Okpo International Market in Geoje, helping create a cleaner traditional market while supporting local businesses through volunteer activities.
Shincheonji Volunteer Group members clean Okpo International Market during a Community Cleanup campaign, creating a cleaner shopping environment while supporting Geoje's traditional market and local community.


The Shincheonji Volunteer Group carried out a Community Cleanup at Okpo International Market in Geoje, collecting 200L of waste while supporting local businesses through traditional market shopping and Volunteer Activities.


A Community Cleanup That Focused on Everyday Spaces

Caring for the Market Environment Before Visitors Arrive



On the 9th, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Geoje Branch carried out the "Love Nature, Keep It Green" Community Cleanup campaign around Okpo International Market and nearby commercial streets.


Okpo International Market is known as one of Geoje's representative traditional markets, attracting many residents and tourists with its fresh seafood and local foods. Because so many people visit the area throughout the year, maintaining a clean and comfortable environment is especially important.


During approximately three hours of Volunteer Activities, 28 volunteers collected about 200 liters of cigarette butts, plastics, vinyl waste, and everyday litter throughout the market streets. At the same time, they introduced the Healthy Neighborhood Campaign, encouraging citizens to recognize the importance of protecting the local environment.


Environmental Protection and Traditional Market Support Together

Cleaning First, Then Shopping Locally



One moment that remained memorable was what happened after the cleanup.
Rather than leaving immediately, members continued their activities by shopping throughout Okpo International Market. 


They purchased groceries and household items from local stores, participating in efforts to encourage traditional market use and support the local economy.


According to local merchants and traditional market experts mentioned in the report, maintaining a clean, pleasant shopping environment is an important factor in helping traditional markets remain competitive. 


They also noted that volunteer-led environmental improvement combined with actual consumer participation can contribute positively to neighborhood commercial districts.


Helpful Resources



Small Volunteer Activities That Create Lasting Community Value

Encouraging Shared Responsibility for the Community



As the cleanup concluded, a local merchant expressed appreciation, saying the market streets had become noticeably cleaner thanks to the volunteers' efforts. The merchant also shared gratitude that the volunteers supported local businesses by shopping in the market after completing the environmental activities, explaining that both actions together helped strengthen the traditional market.


The Geoje Branch explained that the goal was not simply to hold a one-time event but to continue both environmental protection efforts and participation in traditional market use as ongoing community-centered Volunteer Activities.


Looking back on the day, what stood out most was that the activities connected environmental awareness with everyday community participation. Cleaning public spaces and supporting neighborhood businesses happened naturally within the same program, leaving a practical example of community cooperation.


The Shincheonji Volunteer Group demonstrated that Community Cleanup and local economic participation can complement one another. Through environmental protection, traditional market shopping, and continued Volunteer Activities, the volunteers contributed to creating a cleaner and more welcoming Okpo International Market.


What role do you think local volunteer activities can play in supporting both cleaner neighborhoods and stronger traditional markets? Share your thoughts in the comments below.


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