A Present from Sri Lanka : MANNAM Volunteers Work Together, Stand Hand in Hand

In MANNAM Busan North branch office, there are some present from other countries or other branches. Many international friends in our community, when their visa ends, they have to turn back their country, but often people who love Korea, they come back to Korea. Also, students and workers visit their country using their holidays and vacations. 

One Indian friend presented a pretty waterball (snowball) that has a castle and ocean. And when we lent our emblem flags to other branch, they sent back them with post cards with warm-hearted message (it was MANNAM post cards!)

Recently, in our office, three small 'Hand-in-Hand' decoration items were arranged and it makes us think our Sri-Lankan member's love and his affection for us. He was in his country, Sri-Lanka, in summer vacation time, and he introduced MANNAM Volunteer Association in his local community and his friends. Also, when he came back, he gave his Korean class teacher these presents for us, MANNAM volunteers. 

He said he bought these because their 'Hand-in-Hand' which is a pair of shaking hands, let him come up with MANNAM's logo. He was really proud of buying these presents. 

This 'Hand-in-Hand' actually I named after the official song of Seoul Olympic in 1988. This Hand-in-Hand song and the motto of Olympic wishes the end of war and the harmony and peace of world. I put the links here. :) 

Now, he is still participating in our activities passionately and really making harmony in our community with his humor and warm heart! I believe we are becoming more and more 'a real volunteer.' 

[MANNAM Volunteer Association] True Meaning of the Name 'MANNAM'

MANNAM International Volunteer Association

Through meeting together, I experienced what my friends whose skin color, nationality, political view, religion, and culture are different experienced, I faced the reality of the friends, I learned their language, culture, religion, and all valuable heritage and the soul of their history/nationality. Of course, I learned the negative sides of each culture, however, I could self-analyze myself and my culture, Korea.

The reason that MANNAM International members can volunteer not accepting payment for services is that this learning is worthwhile and we do not only make ourselves grow but also do have hope for much happier and more peaceful world where our friends can co-exist. 

Why don't we meet, talk together? We could reach for peace when we share our culture, opinions, knowledge, sources through our MANNAM(meeting)!

The 5th MANNAM Peace Talk concert, The PEACE #5: Poverty

Hello, everyone. 
The Busan North branch of MANNAM International is going to have the 5th peace talk concert, <더 PEACE>! This month, a Bangladesh member, Maksud will talk about Poverty. Main languages in The PEACE talk concert are English and Korean, but if you need Chinese/Russian translation, please let us know ahead of time for staffs to help you on the day! 

*’더 PEACE’ #5. <Poverty> 

*When: May 25th, Saturday, 7:30-9:30 p.m.
*Where: Learning Square Seminar room @ Seomyeon (Seomyeon subway Stn. Exit #1)

*Program* 
7:30-7:50  Reception, Share Snack&Tea 
7:40 Opening 
7:40-8:20  Part 1. ‘Listen’ : Speech (Speaker: Maksud) 
8:20-8:30 Q&A
8:35-9:05  Part 2. ‘Share’ : Discussion and Share your opinions
9:10  Announcement
9:25  Closing 

#Contact: 010.6718.0091 Kristen / mannamthepeace@gmail.com
If you want to join and enjoy the concert, Please confirm ahead of time! :)

On every 4th week, we will have a talk concert, with the title ‘더 Peace’
Every month has a theme related to establish World Peace. 
Why don’t you join us ? :) Do not miss it!

안녕하세요, 여러분.

만남 인터내셔널 부산 북부에서 5번째 <더 PEACE> 토크 콘서트를 엽니다! 제 5회에서는 방글라데시에서 온 막수드가 ‘가난’이라는 주제에 대해 이야기하려고 합니다. 더 PEACE 토크 콘서트의 주요 언어는 영어와 한국어입니다. 하지만, 혹시 중국어나 러시아어 통역이 필요하신 분 있으시면, 미리 말씀해 주시면 스텝이 도와 드리겠습니다!

*제 5회 <주제: 가난>

*일시: 5월 25일 토요일 저녁 7:30-9:30

*장소: 서면 러닝 스퀘어 세미나실 (서면 지하철 역 1번 출구)

*프로그램*

7:30-7:50 다과 나누며 자유로운 토크 시간

7:40 개회: 프로그램 소개

7:40-8:20  강연: 막수드

8:20-8:30  질의 응답

8:35-9:05  그룹 토론 및 의견 나눔

9:10  활동 발표 및 공유

9:25 폐회: 광고, 발표자 및 스텝 지원 받음

#연락처: 010.6718.0091 크리스틴 / mannamthepeace@gmail.com

오시고자 하는 분들은 사전에 미리 연락 부탁 드립니다!!!

매월 4째 주에, 토크 콘서트 '더 PEACE'가 열립니다.

매달 주제는 세계 평화와 관련한 한 가지 주제를 가집니다.

평화를 향한 우리의 도전에 함께 해요 ! 놓치지 마세요~ J

After MANNAM The PEACE #4. Terrorism : What Can We Do?

Hugo, a Mexican-American friend from MANNAM Busan North, made a presentation about Terrorism at the 4th MANNAM The PEACE talk concert last Saturday, 27th, April. Monthly talk concert 'The PEACE', which had started with the start of 2013, on January, this time was the 4th talk. We listened to the speeches about ‘My War and My Peace,’ ‘Discrimination,’ and ‘Culture of Violence.’ Then, the 4th theme was ‘Terrorism.’

His speech was divided into 5 parts:

1. Definition: What is terrorism?
2. Reasons: Why do they do it?
3. Goals: What do they wish to accomplish?
4. Effects: How governments and people react?
5. Solutions: What can we do?

And, this time, after the presentation, many questions were asked to the presenter. 'Terrorism' is very sensitive and controversial issue and there can be many perspectives for this problem. As members who was preparing this 4th talk also expected, people discussed very actively to make the time for part 1 longer than we planned. Even before the concert, there was discussion on facebook, too. However, we did not fight, but just share and listen to others. In part 2, we tried to find further solutions which we can do and share each solution to the panels. Yellow papers in the right picture are the papers on which people write solutions. In next posts, will share them :) 

Actually, there was a big discussion and people wanted to talk more and more, we were running short of time!!! 33 friends from Ethiopia, Russia, Mexico, China, Sri Lankar, Ukraine, Bangladesh, Nepal, Iran, Pakistan, Canada, and Korea talked about the issue which threats world peace worrying it seriously, and expressed their opinions trying to find further solutions to help to decrease these acts of terror and fear of people from very specific solutions to comprehensive ones. Each person comes from the countries which experienced wars, or are in war or other problem which people don't need to experience, and now, we are talking now. No more fight or war, but now conversation starts. How amazing! What I was touched is that people who have all different nationalities can be one, worrying the earth and thinking about world peace. 

MANNAM International Volunteer Association, where many youth from all over the world come together and exchange their cultures with pure volunteerism and we are really enjoying it! Furthermore, there are conversations for WORLD PEACE! MIYC, which consists of MANNAM and many youth communities and organizations that hope peaceful world, also expects you guys to take part in the conversations for peace and is preparing other programs, especially, you can meet 'The PEACE' in the Busan North branch of MANNAM Intl.!!!

On 25th, May, we are going to have the next, the 5th concert! Please cheer us up through any feedback/advice! 

[MANNAM International Busan North] Volunteer Activities: Share Your Warm Heart!

How do you think about VOLUNTEERING? 
I learned one thing in MANNAM, volunteering is easy and it starts from me first. 

Last week, two members of MANNAM Busan North visited again one of the houses where we had visited in November in order to deliver briquets. There was an old lady who lives alone. She is 104 years old this year. The members presented some foods. She was happy to see us and said that what she really wanted is not other foods or financial aids but friends that chat with her. 

Sometimes, volunteer activities can make you feel difficult because it requires you put your energy - your financial aid, time, physical labor, etc. - and even it can make you think, 'Am I a worker? Why am I doing this? Oooh, feeling sick of it.' (Of course, If you feel like it, I recommend you stop taking part in volunteering activities and take a rest! There can't be force) However, when I came up with the result of my volunteering, and after I considered people whom I help as my friends, it was easier than before. Above all, when I found there were more people to work together, it was not difficult one more, rather it was fun and amazing moment!

MANNAM Busan North branch Shared Our Warm Heart with Delivering Briquette(Nov 17th, 2012) and Making Kimchi (Dec 12th, 2012)!!! More pictures on www.facebook.com/mannam.busan.north

MANNAM Busan North branch has been doing volunteer activities for elders who live alone, and the members are volunteering as teachers and assistants in Korean classes, and some members are helping our programs as staffs who take videos and pictures. Every 2nd and 4th Saturday, we are going to Minju Park and there is a Soup Kitchen. And we are planning to do volunteer activities in a farming community this summer. And as I said first, we want to visit them periodically and have a meaningful time with them! It will be definitely nice and meaningful time to deliver lunch boxes of love, chat with themselves, and massage them. 

And if you have any good idea to do volunteering activities, please contact to us! Please remember that MANNAM is run and made by you, your imagine, your energy, and your participation! 

If you have any good idea to help others, or if you know the place or people who need our help, please contact to us: mannam.busan.north@gmail.com

[MANNAM International Busan North] Do you know Busan in South Korea?

Hello, how are you today?
I made up my mind to publish posts about Busan and MANNAM Busan North branch.
Actually, the program which this blog is introducing is run by Busan North branch, but I found there was few posts about it though many readers may wonder whether there are other activities and want to get information about Busan.

The Busan branch of MANNAM International started at the end of 2011, and it has been doing many activities and running classes since then. You can see many pictures and news on MANNAM News Letters in 2012. As you know, in their beginning period, most organizations or businesses learn from trial and errors. We opened many classes and found many places to visit to help as volunteers as well as planed the events to help people in need. There were a lot of culture classes/club: Korean language classes, K-pop dance classes, an English class, a Korean cooking class, a Soccer team, a Basketball club,

Through the year of 2012, MANNAM Busan, which was started with about 20 members, has grown and now it has more than 500 members. Then, from 2013, MANNAM Busan is run divided into two branches, South and North branches.

MANNAM Busan North branch has been trying to do volunteer work periodically and planning and doing meaningful programs, one of which is '더 PEACE.' And, I am sure that Busan North branch's Korean classes are the best classes among many Korean classes in MANNAM branches and it is even one of the most high-qualified classes in South Korea, I'm sure! There are about 100 members who registered, and average 60 members are studying Korean language with us every weekend.

The blog of Korean classes was newly started, now more useful information and important posts will be uploaded: mannambusankorean.blogspot.com

More information about the programs will be uploaded and you can get information about Busan, too! :)

Let's Make the Culture of Peace Together!!! After the 3rd MANNAM The PEACE talk concert

Let's Make the Culture of Peace Together!!!

-After the 3rd talk

In MANNAM Volunteer Association, you can meet many friends who are different from you-different language, different culture, different political views, different religion, different skin color, etc.-and it will be part of life to understand 'difference,' working together as volunteers. On 23rd, March, at Learning Square, we had the 3rd <더 PEACE> 

I, as the director of <더 PEACE> talk concert, really wanted to deliver my heart, how much I grew, what I feel, and why I keep doing this. On this 3rd talk concert, we introduced new style to our part 1, using subtitle and there was no translator. The speech was given in Korean language with English subtitle. 

'Culture of Violence' was the 3rd theme. It was quite difficult to deal with because there are variety views about violence. My focus of the presentation on the overall culture, rather it means our conversation/language, tradition, laws, norms, which we have in life as the way of life. And, what I wanted to say was that we can change our culture breeding violence as changing the language and behavior with positive and bright energy. 

Actually, preparing this, and during the speech, I tried to put my heart into my voice,  hoping more people to join this campaign for peace, not only friends who came there but also others who would watch or hear from news, youtube, facebook, and blogs. 

In part 2, we lerned Non-Violent Conversation which is one of projects to build non-violent culture. The guests were grouped into 4, then shared the current feeling and guessed friends' need. And all panels made a huge circle then discussed on the question raised during the presentation. 

Actually, this month, I volunteered as a speaker to ask people to help me, help people who are in war and hope peace with their whole heart, and help MANNAM Volunteer Association. I also ask you, who is reading this article, to help me, help them, and help us. Here is the part of my speech, in the conclusion part. Wish that you can feel our heart. 

‘더 피스’를 처음 시작할 때, 저는 멋져 보이려고 시작한 것이 아닙니다. 그리고 저 혼자 만의 생각 도 아닙니다. 먼저 여기 있는 한 사나이, 최성민 오빠와 Aislin, 엠씨 준 오빠, 그리고 우리 포토그래퍼 선아언니가 각자 어떻게 사람들의 마음을 감동시켜서, 그들이 세계와 평화에 대해 생각하게 만들까? 고민했고, 또 우리가 만남에서 느끼는 것 과 같이, 우리가 피부색, 국적, 종교적 배경을 넘어 각종 경계들을 없애려고 노력하는 것 같이, 사람들이 이렇게 느끼고 노력하도록 할 수 있을까? 고민했습니다.   

지금은 '벌써' 그리고 '아직' 3회입니다. 그리고 어쩌면 아직은 작은 시도로 보일지도 모르지요. 하지만 저는 애초 기획에서 이렇게 생각을 했습니다. 우리 안에서 평화의 문화를 연습하고, 다음으로 이것을 지역 사회와 학교에 알린다면, 이 땅 가운데 사람들이 평화에 관심을 갖고, 귀 기울이고, 주목하고, 전쟁이 끝나기를 소망하며 함께 목소리를 모을 수 있으리라 믿습니다. 

When I first planned to start ‘더 PEACE,’ it’s not for making me popular and famous. And, it’s not my own idea. First, a guy who are here, Seong min Choi, and Aislin, Jun Park, our photographer Sun-A are thinking about how we touch people’s mind and make them think and worry about world and peace. Also, as we feel in our community MANNAM, as we try to break the barriers beyond skin color, nationalities, and religions, how can we make people try to do that? 

Now! 'Already' and 'Still' the 3^rd talk concert. Maybe this looks a very small group and some people think it’s useless. However, I thought first when we started, If we practice culture of peace and love in our community, next we inform this to local communities and schools, then people in society will be interest in making world peace, and they will hear and watch this movement, also they will raise their voice together! 

그런데, 저 혼자 할 수 없습니다. 저를 도와주세요. 함께 아이디어를 모읍시다. 함께 토론하고 걱정하면서 말입니다. 6회까지 이 콘서트가 진행되고 나면 상반기 결산을 하면서 정말 평화 콘서트나 전시회를 가질 계획입니다. 창조적인 아이디어들이 있으시면, 저 사회의 관심 없는 사람들도 동참시킬 수 있는 아이디어들이 있으시면, 말해 주십시오.

However, I cannot make it alone. Help me. Let’s gather your opinions discussing together, worrying together. After the 6^th concert, we are going to hold a bigger peace concert or exhibition. If you have creative ideas to make people who are not interested in take part in this, please tell us!  

여러분의 말 한마디로부터 평화 문화의 창조가 시작됩니다. 여러분의 정신과 사상이 말과 글로 표현되고, 이것이 사회 구성원들의 행동양식으로 이어지면, 이것은 문화가 됩니다. 참으로 오늘 이 곳에 모인 모두가 문화적인 인생이 되어 평화를 함께 만들어가고 이룩하는 주체들이 되기를 바라며, 오늘의 강연을 마치도록 하겠습니다. 감사합니다. 

The creation of peace culture is started from your words. Your mind and thought is expressed as the words, then, if it is shared among members in society, it can form culture. I sincerely hope your life to change our culture and make peace. Thank you for your listening!

The 3rd MANNAM Peace Talk concert, The PEACE #3: Culture of Violence

Hello, everyone.

The Busan North branch of MANNAM International is going to have the 3^rd peace talk concert, <더 PEACE>!

Finally March, and spring comes round! This month, the director of program, Kristen is a speaker. Do you wonder why she started and why MANNAM supported it, <더 PEACE> talk concert? Are you hesitating to involve in the program? Please come and hear at first hand!

*’더 PEACE’ #3. <Culture of Violence>

*When: Mar 23th, Saturday, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

*Where: Learning Square Seminar room @ Seomyeon (Seomyeon subway Stn. Exit #1)

*Program*

7:30-7:50  Reception, Share Snack&Tea (There are some snack, juice, coffee and tea)

7:45  Opening

7:50-8:20  Part 1. ‘Listen’ : Speech (Speaker: Kristen Hwang)

8:20-8:30 Q&A

8:35-9:05  Part 2. ‘Share’ : Building Culture of Non-violence through Conversation

9:10  Announcement

9:25  Closing

#Contact: 010.6718.0091 Kristen / mannamthepeace@gmail.com

If you want to join and enjoy the concert, Please confirm ahead of time! :)

On every 4th week, we will have a talk concert, with the title ‘더 Peace’

Every month has a theme related to establish World Peace.

Why don’t you join us ? :) Do not miss it!

*제 3회 <주제: 폭력 문화>

*일시: 3월 23일 토요일 저녁 7:30-9:30

*장소: 서면 러닝 스퀘어 세미나실 (서면 지하철 역 1번 출구)

*프로그램*

7:30-7:50 다과 나누며 자유로운 토크 시간

7:45 개회: 프로그램 소개

7:50-8:20  강연: 황 지민(크리스틴)

8:20-8:30  질의 응답

8:35-9:05  자유 활동: 비폭력 대화를 통한 비폭력 문화 세우기

9:10  활동 발표 및 공유

9:25 폐회: 광고, 발표자 및 스텝 지원 받음

MANNAM Volunteer Association in South Korea 4: World Peace and Independence Festival of Victory

There have been many empires and colonies in the world history from even prehistoric era. Often, a nation’s desire to control other countries made people who had believed in human development through enlightenment. Accordingly, many colonial empires and colonies appeared. One day, I just wondered how many nations have Independence Day. You can check on Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independence_day

One of countries which has Independence Day is Korea!

In Korea, Independence Day is called ‘Light Restoration (光復).’ ‘光’ is Chinese character which means ‘light.’ It is one of the most joyful holidays in Korean history ending the 35year-colonial era. In 光復, ‘light’ means culture as well as national sovereignty controlled by Japanese empire.

In MANNAM’s slogan, you can see ‘light’ on the phrase ‘When Light Meets Light There is Victory’ It means each person who can be a light for the world as volunteering, but also it means ‘culture’ as mentioned above. Accordingly, we believe creating culture is so important and doing many cultural activities and huge events with cultural performances!

MANNAM in South Korea 'World Peace and Independence Festival of Victory' celebrating 65th Independence Day in 2010. A lot of VIPs and ambassadors from 34 countries participated in this national event.

There were a lot of cultural performances and booths about not only Korean traditional culture, but also 23 international culture booths.

The most impressive and special event was laser show, using light and symbolizing Korean Light Restoration day with introducing MANNAM’s slogan.

It was meaningful work to preserve the valuable cultures and stimulate people to think about the past history and give thanks to ancestors.

How do you think of all these events?

 As mentioned before, MANNAM’s slogan includes ‘Light Meets Light,’ if ‘light’ means culture, how about helping us to meet your culture, too?

MANNAM's Campaigns for PEACE : The Dream dreamed Together will be Reality

Why We are Here

Again, the 4th Saturday is coming. Some people may wonder why MANNAM is doing this,   <더 PEACE> talk concert or other activities and movements to create the culture of peace. Do you think 'peace' is just a word and the excuse of war or tool to make an organization well-known, too? One of my friend wrote like it when we were participating in WPI movement and asked 'what is peace?'

Whatever you thought, the true purpose of campaigns is not false one and members taking part in them are sincerely hoping peace. '더 PEACE' team in the Busan North branch is having weekly meeting and studying about Peace and War, and discussing how we can make students and citizens think of peace and make it together. Also, we want to meet as many international friends as possible, because each countries have many different cultural, political, religious, ethnic backgrounds, we can learn from each other and can be inspired by meeting. 

Beginning of Change

A turning point in life is, of course, it can be a huge and surprising event but we can find that sometimes very trivial things can change our thought, feeling, even life. Also, it is often from people we meet in life. I was working in student council and in the 3rd year became the student representative when I was in middle school. There was a very energetic and active teacher and he frequently suggested to make campaigns and student movements. As a result, our student council did several campaigns. For example, in Korea, there is sometimes serious bullying cases but we, student council, made posters, 'Public Indifference is Another Violence' to rise awareness of citizens around school and make them realize the seriousness of school violence. I can't say that all campaigns were always successful or highly effective, but it made difference in the town. 

I learned two things. First, even if just one member of school thought differently and worked off his energy, it can have a positive influence on others and  move students. Secondly, when we started to think, plan and act in a community, it can extend over the community.  

In MANNAM International, I found there were many friends like him and dreamed the culture of peace, love, and volunteerism, and now I believed that we can achieve it when more and more people dreamed together. MANNAM hopes you will be that one to think differently and give off positive energy in the world, as well as come and make our campaigns together! 

We Invite you to the 3rd <더 PEACE> talk concert! 

On the picture above, through sharing stories of each other and listening to others, understanding and communication starts, furthermore, world can be changed by it. 

MANNAM Volunteer Association in South Korea 3: Korea Will Remember You Forever

On June 25, Sunday 4:00am, 1950, the tragic Korean War began with gunfire and after 3 years and 1 month, the ceasefire negotiation ended, leaving an everlasting pain and many scars behind. 

With the precious sacrifice of the veterans, we rose up and made unimaginable progress and developments. Within 60 years, trying to leave the pain behind, Korea was able to flourish in the world by holding the 88 Olympics, 2002 World Cup, and the G-20 Seoul Summit.

Marking the 60th anniversary of the Korean War, MANNAM held this event in remembrance of the veteran’s sacrifices which made Korea truly what it is today.

By the Arrangement of Collective Security, ‘UN takes effective collective measures for the prevention and removal of threats to the peace' UN forces enter the Korean War to protect Korea's liberalization. The Korean War was the first war involving the UN forces in an effort to bring forth Peace and freedom to Korea. So this became not just Korea's war, but a war in which the world shared.
We will never forget the sacrifice and dedication of the UN forces which allowed Korea to exist today. (Retrieved from mannamintl.org)

On June 26th, 2010, Sejong Center on Seoul Gwanghwa gate street, there were a lot of special guests early in the morning. They were war veterans of the Korean War and their family from many cities of South Korea, and the ambassadors of nations which had participated in Korean War as UN forces. 

From 10 a.m., the Nara Sarang National Event, 'Korea will Remember You Forever' was started. With opening, the biggest Taeguek flag, which was made in Memorial Day of 2009, appeared and flag bearers first emerged then many variety performances followed, to remember soldiers and many people who sacrificed their lives because of war. 

The representative of MANNAM volunteer association, Nam Hee Kim's speech was followed by the rememberance of one of war veterans, Man Hee Lee. 

Next, an unveiling ceremony for a special monument which had been made by ambassador's hand print from each country that helped Korea during the war as UN forces. The monument has Taeguek mark!

Also, with the handprinting monument, there was a meaningful event, made a time-capsule and put 1,300 letters from citizens in South Korea and the monuments which make us come up with this event for remembering Korean War. 

From April, students in 7 elementary schools took part in leaving their fingerprint, appreciating of UN participation, the flag made with fingerprints of children. Korea remember you forever!!!

MANNAM Volunteer Association in South Korea 2: Love for Taeguek, and Love for Mugunghwa

In Korea, June 6th is Memorial Day for commemorating people who sacrificed their lives during the Korean War. On June 6th, Memorial Day of 2009, a public patriotic event was held which one hundred thousand people participated on Yeongdong main-street (blocking eight-lanes) in front of the Coex Mall.  

It was the 54 th Memorial Day, and there 54 volunteer organizations in Korea and abroad participated in and set up many booths as well as prepared many performances. 

MANNAM Volunteer Association became much larger and more known by public through this event, as 54 organizations united. You can see the names of organizations (more than 54 now) on mannam.org.

Actually, MANNAM mainly volunteered around Gangnam, Seoul, unnoticeably, but with a pure heart from 2003. In 2008, a bazaar was held for those in need at the Apgujung, Chungdam elementary school and ten thousand citizens, including local residents participated. Gangnam district office was surprised with the outcome and suggested holding another event together. Finally, 'Love for Taeguek, Love for Mugunghwa' was held!!!

The Biggest Taeguek flag in the World

There were impressive performances and monuments, one of which was the biggest Taeguek flag (Korean national flag) in the world. It was recorded on the Guinness book!

This flag was made by 17,337 people's fingerprint, of which size is 60*40 meter. 

Look at the right picture! Can you imagine how big it is? 

The flag was completed in the square of peace in Olympic park and exhibited in the KEPCO building during the event.

Among 54 volunteer association, there are volunteer groups who share their skills and talents as artists so there were various performances and it was really surprising, touching, even inspiring some people said. 

Also, there was a fun, but meaningful performance, 'Mixing Bibimbap.' Bibimbap is one of the well-known Korean traditional foods, which is a symbol of harmony and balance. 

On the day, Bibimbap for 1,000 people was in a very huge bowl, then VIPs in the event came and mix it wishing Korea society to be in harmony.

During this event, many people including international families learned about not only Taeguek and Mugunghwa but also Korean histories. 

MANNAM did not stop loving for Taeguek, loving for Mugunghwa, and loving for cultural heritage! Many branches are connected to elementary schools and educational centers run by local communities, and yearly have held the event or offered educational programs to teach Mugunghwa and Taeguek,and make people recognize its meaning. 

And Now, we, MANNAM International wants to share each nation's culture and histories as well as each member's stories through communication each other, because when more than 50 organizations became united and MANNAM was born at the beginning, we understood and recognize the importance of culture and histories, furthermore, the value of volunteerism to make the world more beautiful. 

World Peace, and Victoryis started from understanding.And for understanding and communication, there must be 만남 (meeting)! :)

MANNAM Volunteer Association in South Korea 1: Rememberance for March 1st Movement

Today, March 1st is a national holiday in Korea when March 1st Movement took place. There a lot of Koreans including many students and intellectuals participated in the movement, and they shouted for freedom. 

Even if they looked weak and powerless because they lost their land and ruled by Japan, they just rose Taeguek flag (Korean national flag) and shouted hurray for independence of motherland, restoration of light. 

Like them in 1919, today, on March 1st in 2013, MANNAM Gwangju branch organized the parade of cycling with Taeguek flags (It was covered in Korean news channel YTN: http://bit.ly/YOy95G)

In Seoul, there was a '응답하라 1919' event ('응답하라' means 'Do respond.' This title is a parady of '응답하라 1997,' which was a popular drama that made people who were students in 1997 felt  nostalgia. So, the title is intended to make audience think about 1919 when March 1st Movement occurred.)

One of MANNAM Busan North members visited Seoul to see families and she happened to see the event, and got the stickers! She guessed it's MANNAM event because there were many people including many international friends, and her thought was right! :) Then, she took pictures and sent these to Busan North members!

MANNAM members and citizens in Seoul walked together from Insa-dong to Gwang-hwa gate remembering March 1st Movement and wishing world peace! Also there were the parade to represent March 1st, 1919 - with similar clothes, and short drama. 

MANNAM volunteer association, which started from Korea, has been planning and held the national festival once or twice a year. Remembering Korean and world histories and giving a respect to many people who tired to make world peace is also what we want to do. 

Furthermore, our activities like these make people- especially for children and youth groups-rise awareness of the truly important values. We held 'Love for Taegeuk,  and Love for Mugungwha' on Memorial Day of 2009, gave thanks to UN participation in the Korean War on June 26th, 2010, held 'Festival of World Peace, Light Restoration, and Victory' celebrating the Independence Day in 2010 and 2011. Next posts I will introduce other events! 

Summary of Speech: MANNAM, #2: Equality&Discrimination

Finally we are going to have the 2nd peace talk concert! The speaker is Rodrigo Braune, a Brazilian friend in MANNAM International in Busan North branch. He will give us presentation about Equality and Discrimination. The bottom is summary of his speech, and you can see this on leaflet on the spot. Exited! Hope you come and share your stories with us. :)

발표내용 요약 Summary

The meaning of discrimination is the unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people. We can often have prejudice about others different from us but we need to tell prejudice from discrimination.

Examples of Discrimination … Around us there are a lot of examples of discrimination, from a story about 12-year-old boy who was bullied because of appearance to political issues. Recently, Brazilian government created laws about having a quota for university entrance exams. It is an on-going debate in Brazil. It seems that the law is based on the racism which assumes those who are not white have difficult receiving good grades. There is only one race in the world: the human race. Everyone is equal but everyone has different opportunities in life, some of them have less and some have more.

What we have in common and the need of tolerance … Difference. This makes us equals and being different is our common characteristic. We need to tolerate our differences and live with that. I enjoyed my school days with a variety of people from all different groups, and countries and it made me not only understand but live the concept of diversity. In that school, we were not labeled as for example homosexuals but students of the school and we were proud to be students of that school. If it weren't by attending that school, I think I wouldn’t be here now.

차별이란 서로 다르다는 이유로 공정하지 못한 대우를 하는 행동을 말합니다. 서로 다른 대상이기에 편견을 가지는 것은 자연스러운 일이나, 어떤 기준으로 다른 대우를 하는 것은 편견과는 구별되어야 합니다.

차별의 예 … 차별의 예는 12살 한 소년이 뚱뚱하다는 이유로 왕따를 받은 것에서부터 정치적인 문제에 이르기까지 광범위합니다. 최근 브라질에서 소수자들에게 교육의 기회를 더 주어야 한다는 법 개정에 대한 논의가 일고 있습니다만, 그것은 백인이 아니면 좋은 성적을 받는 것이 어렵다는 인종주의적 차별에서 근거합니다. 세상엔 오직 한 인종밖에 없습니다. 인간 말입니다. 각 사람은 모두 평등합니다. 하지만 저마다의 삶에서 각각 다른 기회들을 가진다고 생각합니다. 어떤 사람들은 기회가 많을 수 있고, 또 어떤 사람들은 기회가 적을 수도 있죠.

우리의 공통점과 관용의 필요성 … 다름. 이 사실이 우리를 평등하게 만들어 주고 그것이야 말로 우리의 공통적인 특징입니다. 우리는 각 존재의 다름에 대해서 관용해야 합니다. 저는 각 계층과 나라에서 모인 다양한 사람들과 학창시절을 보내며, 다양성의 개념을 이해하고 생활하기 시작했습니다. 서로를 그냥 학교의 학생으로 보았지 예를 들어 저 애는 동성애자야 라고 낙인 찍지 않았습니다. 친구들은 모두 그 학교의 학생인 것을 자랑스러워합니다. 그 학교에서의 시간이 없었다면 지금의 저도 없었을 것입니다.

- Rodrigo Braune

The 2nd MANNAM Peace Talk concert, The PEACE #2: Equality&Discrimination

The PEACE #2.: 

Equality &Discrimintaion

Hello, everyone.

MANNAM Busan North is going to have the 2^nd peace talk concert, <더 PEACE>

*’The Peace’ #2. <Equality & Discrimination>

*When: Feb 23th, Saturday, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

*Where: Learning Square Seminar room @ Seomyeon (Seomyeon subway Stn. Exit #1)

*Program*

7:30-7:50  Reception, Share Snack&Tea (There are some snack, juice, coffee and tea)

7:50  Opening (The head director will introduce what the concert is about)

8:00-8:30  Part 1. ‘Listen’ : Speech (Speaker: Rodrigo Braune)

8:35-9:05  Part 2. ‘Jump’ : Express your opinion FREEly! Discussion related to the speech

9:10  Share each opinion and Wrap-up

9:25  Closing (We will receive applications for next month's speech)

#Contact: 010.6718.0091 Kristen / mannamthepeace@gmail.com

If you want to join and enjoy the concert, Please confirm ahead of time! :)

On every 4th week, we will have a talk concert, with the title ‘더 Peace’

Everyone has been talking about peace a lot and each has different view.

However, there are common ground among people, more fundamental and basic one.

So, we decided to listen to variety views through the Speech and a discussion which will help more people to find and make ‘the Peace’!

Every month has a theme related to making the culture of peace.

Why don’t you join us ? :) Do not miss it!

Have you thougt about Equality & Discrimination?: MANNAM 2nd Peace Talk concert

MANNAM The PEACE project team is preparing 2nd Peace talk concert.
The 2nd theme is about equality and discrimination. Have you experienced 'discrimination' in your life? And how do you think about 'equality and discrimination'?

Our friend, the 2nd guest speaker, Rodrigo is preparing the speech. And I read his scripts and it was impressing. You can hear his real experience and sincere heart to equality and discrimination. Look forward the 2nd talk concert! :)

[더Peace] #1. Peace, War and Me. - MANNAM Volunteer Association North Busan

Our First talk concert movie clip!

The 1st speaker was Aislin Kim, who is in charge of MANNAM facebook, an university student in Busan. You can find her story more on the blog mannampop.blogspot.com

MANNAM has a goal of world peace and the peace team do not want to stop World Peace Initiative movement which we started last year. When we held the World Peace Festival last year, some people has skeptical view about World Peace and they thought it's just for making the organization famous, but I really don't like the view.

'더 PEACE' team, including me, has each reason why we want peace and love to share our feelings and opinions in the MANNAM community. What I want is not to be famous, or writing a good line on my resume (one of my friends guesses that I am doing this for good resume) - If I want it, I will work for more established organizations than MANNAM - but what I sincerely want is to learn attitude to accept/tolerate other culture and friends with true heart.

MANNAM makes me imagine and act. Before, I was just thinking without acting. Although I learned  5 languages and eastern/western histories and literature, I did not imagine and even did not believe world can be united and establish peace.   

But now, I'm finding the possibility of peace and true understanding between you and I, we and they, and between all different nations/cultures.

You can find what MANNAM is doing, what we are dreaming on the video.

We never do force our view/vision to members.

What we are doing is listening to others' story sharing each opinion, and express to make the culture of peace and unity.

If you want to take part in our project, <The PEACE>, please do contact!

Contact# Kristen 010.6718.0091 / mannamthepeace@gmail.com

Please subscribe our blog also!

Oh, I did not introduce myself, I'm Kristen and leader of this project team.  :)

In Korea, it's three-day-holiday (Feb 9th-11th) celebrating Lunar new year! Have a good day and Happy Seolnal!