4.22 Million Volunteers: How Gyeonggi-do Is Building a Warmer, More Human Korea

Gyeonggi-do’s Volunteer Spirit: More Than Just Numbers

Did you know that nearly one out of every three people in Korea’s largest province is a registered volunteer? On June 17, at the SINTEX convention center in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Governor Dong-yeon Kim stood before a crowd of over 1,200, celebrating the 4.22 million volunteers who are shaping the region into a truly human-centered society. This staggering number isn’t just a statistic—it’s a testament to the province’s deep-rooted culture of giving, solidarity, and social responsibility. Recent articles from News1, Yonhap, and The Korea Herald have spotlighted how Gyeonggi’s volunteer force mobilizes for everything from disaster relief to daily community support, making it a model for the rest of Korea and even Asia.
On Naver and Tistory blogs, volunteers share stories of how their work has transformed their own lives, not just those they help. Many write about the sense of belonging and purpose they find, and how volunteering has become a lifestyle, not just an occasional act.

Governor Kim’s Vision: Expanding Support for Volunteers

At the 2025 Gyeonggi Volunteer Conference, Governor Kim didn’t just praise the volunteers—he made concrete promises. He announced that the province will increase its support for volunteer organizations, raising the number of funded projects by 15% this year. He shared personal anecdotes, like massaging the legs of wildfire victims in Andong alongside his wife, to illustrate the addictive nature of helping others. Kim emphasized that Gyeonggi’s volunteers aren’t just helping locally—they rush to wherever help is needed, from military accident sites to disaster zones across the country.
Community reactions on DCInside and Efem Korea forums were overwhelmingly positive, with users calling the governor’s approach “refreshing” and “genuine,” though some expressed skepticism about whether political promises would translate into lasting support.

Honoring the Everyday Heroes: Stories That Inspire

One of the most moving moments at the conference was the recognition of volunteers who have given thousands of hours to their communities. Kim Yoon-joo, an education instructor from Anyang, was honored for 20 years of tutoring underprivileged children. At 93, Jeong Hwa-il, a Korean War veteran, was celebrated for his ongoing work supporting meal programs and welfare centers. These stories have gone viral on Korean blogs and news sites, with commenters on Nate Pann and Theqoo expressing admiration for the volunteers’ dedication and humility.
Such recognition isn’t just symbolic. Gyeonggi-do awards outstanding volunteers with certificates, discounts at partner stores, and even opportunities for international study tours, reinforcing the idea that service is valued at every level of society.

A Festival for the People: The Volunteer Conference Experience

The Gyeonggi Volunteer Conference isn’t just an awards ceremony—it’s a full-fledged festival. This year’s event, held ahead of the official Volunteer Day (December 5), featured interactive booths, hands-on activities, and celebratory performances. The slogan, “Remembering Volunteers Every Day, Every Moment,” set the tone for a day of gratitude and community connection. According to coverage by Maeil Business and JoongAng Ilbo, the event aimed to make every volunteer feel seen and appreciated.
On Instiz and Naver blogs, attendees posted photos and reviews, describing the event as “uplifting” and “a reminder of what makes Korea special.” Many noted the diversity of participants, from teenagers to senior citizens, reflecting the broad appeal and inclusivity of volunteering in Gyeonggi-do.

How Korean Volunteerism Differs: Cultural Insights for International Fans

If you’re new to Korean society, you might be surprised by how organized and celebrated volunteerism is here. In Gyeonggi-do, volunteering is woven into the fabric of daily life, supported by both government and grassroots organizations. The province’s system of recognizing volunteers with titles like ‘Gold,’ ‘Silver,’ and ‘Bronze’ badges is unique, creating a sense of friendly competition and pride.
International fans should know that volunteering in Korea often goes beyond charity—it’s about building community resilience and social trust. As seen in recent blog posts and news features, volunteers are often the first responders in crises, and their contributions are widely respected. This culture of service is one of the reasons why Korean communities are known for their rapid, collective responses to challenges.

Community Buzz: What Are Koreans Saying?

Online reactions to the 2025 Gyeonggi Volunteer Conference were vibrant and varied. On DCInside, users praised the recognition of senior volunteers, with one comment reading, “It’s amazing to see someone in their 90s still giving back.” Efem Korea users debated whether the government’s increased funding would be enough, while PGR21 and Theqoo highlighted the emotional stories shared at the event.
On Naver and Daum, bloggers reflected on their own volunteer experiences, with many expressing renewed motivation to get involved. Some posts questioned whether enough is being done for volunteers in rural areas, sparking discussions about how to make support more equitable across the province.

The Future of Volunteerism in Gyeonggi-do

Governor Kim’s commitment to expanding volunteer programs signals a bright future for community service in Gyeonggi-do. With over 32,000 outstanding volunteers recognized this year alone, and a growing number of projects and benefits, the province is setting a new standard for civic engagement in Korea.
As the region continues to recover from recent disasters and adapt to new social challenges, its army of volunteers remains at the heart of its resilience. For international readers, Gyeonggi-do offers a powerful example of how collective action and a culture of service can transform not just a province, but an entire society.