On June 19, members from the Gyeonggi Northeast Church Region in Kora carried out the “Forest of Hope” campaign in Yeoncheon to commemorate the International Day for Biological Diversity (May 22) and World Environment Day (June 5). Both days were established to promote the protection of the environment and ecosystems threatened by climate change. With a shared commitment to preserving green spaces and reducing carbon emissions, around 700 members from eight areas, including Yeoncheon, Dongducheon, Yangju, and Guri, participated in the campaign, joined by figures from various sectors, including politics and education.
At 10:30 a.m., the members gathered at Yeoncheon Station and cleaned a total of 25 km (15.5 mi) while covering every corner of Hyeonga Neighborhood Park, Oksan Neighborhood Park, Yeoncheon Children’s Park, and Manggoksan Lovers’ Park. They collected discarded plastic, vinyl, and other waste. In total, the members picked up about 1 metric ton of trash, filling seventy 50 L garbage bags provided by the Yeoncheon County Office. A panel exhibition was also held along the street to raise awareness of the seriousness of desertification and practical ways to prevent it.
Kim Deok-hyeon, Mayor of Yeoncheon County, who visited the site, said, “Since so many members from the Church of God participated in today’s campaign, I hope it will help raise environmental awareness among Yeoncheon residents.” Church member Lee Eun-mi said, “Seeing the park become cleaner through small actions made me want to take a more active part in protecting the environment in daily life, such as by using tumblers and reusable shopping bags.”
