LG is sponsoring the visit of the Kagnew Choir, comprised of descendants of Ethiopian veterans who fought for South Korea during the Korean War. The initiative aims to honor the sacrifices of these veterans and promote cultural exchange between future generations.
According to industry sources on June 21, the Kagnew Choir, along with 35 members including Tesfaye Asmamaw, a veteran of the Korean War, will arrive in South Korea on June 22 for a 36-day tour.
LG is covering the travel expenses, including airfare and accommodation, for the visiting group. The event is also supported by the Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs and organized by the nonprofit organization Warm Day. Since 2016, Warm Day has been involved in supporting Ethiopian veterans and established the Kagnew Choir in 2018.
Ethiopia is the only African nation to have deployed ground troops during the Korean War. The Kagnew Battalion, which was part of the Imperial Guard, fought on the central front, suffering 122 fatalities and 536 injuries.
The Kagnew Choir will participate in an international veterans and peace project concert at the National Assembly on June 24 and attend the 76th anniversary ceremony of the Korean War in Suwon on June 25. On the same day, they will also sing the national anthem at a baseball game between the LG Twins and Samsung Lions at Jamsil Stadium. Their visit will conclude with a performance commemorating the United Nations Forces Participation Day on July 27.
Business leaders have noted that support for the descendants of participating nations is evolving beyond mere donations, transforming into a long-term model for diplomatic relations and cultural exchange.
LG has also been active in social contributions in Ethiopia. In collaboration with KOICA and the Ethiopian government, LG established the "LG-KOICA Hope Vocational Training School" in 2014, providing IT skills training to local youth. Outstanding graduates are offered internship opportunities with LG Electronics' Central Asia service corporation.
An LG representative stated, "The visit of the Kagnew Choir is a meaningful opportunity to honor the sacrifices of Ethiopian veterans and to foster cultural exchange through music with future generations. We will continue to fulfill our social responsibilities and remember those who dedicated themselves to South Korea."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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