Park Seung-won, the mayor of Gwangmyeong, emphasized on August 22 that "the health and happiness of all children is the beginning of peace."
On this day, Mayor Park held the 13th Gwangmyeong City Community Child Center Children and Youth Festival at the Gwangmyeong Citizens' Gymnasium, engaging directly with children in a manner suited to their level.
The event created a space for children from local community centers to play freely, communicate, and nurture their dreams.
Approximately 900 participants, including children from local community centers and their guardians, enjoyed the festival together.
This festival was designed not just as an event but as an opportunity for children to take center stage, interact, collaborate, and connect with the community.
The celebration began with performances prepared by the children from the community centers, followed by a musical show and a comedy act, filling the venue with laughter and cheers.
In particular, the cheerful sports day allowed children to participate in various physical activities, emphasizing cooperation, consideration, and support for friends over competition.
As the event progressed, random play and traditional games brought children and participants together, enhancing the festival's significance. The event concluded successfully with awards for outstanding teams.
Mayor Park has consistently highlighted the importance of creating a city where children can grow up safely and happily, emphasizing inclusivity so that no one is left behind.
During this festival, he aimed to connect with children and listen to their voices and dreams from the community center.
Community child centers serve as a vital safety net in the community, providing after-school care, education, and cultural and experiential activities for children in need.
Building on this local care foundation, Mayor Park continues to foster solidarity and support from the community to ensure that children can grow up healthily, regardless of their home environment or economic conditions.
One participant remarked, "It was wonderful to see the children not just watching the programs set up by adults but actively performing and enjoying themselves. The mayor's engagement with the children was also impressive."
Another citizen stated, "Creating an environment where children can grow up happily is ultimately about building the future of Gwangmyeong. I hope the atmosphere of the community centers, schools, and local community caring for children continues."
Meanwhile, Mayor Park stated, "I will strengthen collaboration with the community to ensure that children can grow up safely and happily." He added, "I will continue to communicate to create a Gwangmyeong where each child can freely pursue their dreams and have their voices reflected in the administration."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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