Gwangjin-gu Celebrates 30th Senior Citizens' Day With 'Happy Festival'

Gwangjin-gu held its "Happy Senior Citizens' Festival" at the district office's main auditorium Friday to mark the 30th Senior Citizens' Day.

Senior Citizens' Day is a statutory commemorative day established to reaffirm respect for the elderly and raise public awareness of issues affecting older members of society.

The event was organized to express gratitude and respect to seniors who have dedicated themselves to their local community and neighbors, while giving them a lively space to connect and spend time together.

This year's festival was held under the main theme "Youth Is Right Now," drawing about 300 attendees, including local seniors, representatives from related organizations and community residents.

A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of longevity commemorative plaques to seniors celebrating their 100th birthday this year, with wishes for their continued health and long life.

Commendations from the district mayor were then presented to 30 individuals who have devoted themselves to community development and the promotion of senior welfare — 15 exemplary seniors and 15 contributors to senior welfare services. The honorees were recognized for their volunteer work, acts of sharing and contributions to spreading a culture of respect for elders.

The ceremony was followed by a series of celebratory performances. The program opened with an energetic nanta drumming set by Dudeurim Nanta, followed by a harmonica and mandolin duet, a health exercise routine by a club from the Korea Senior Citizens Association's Gwangjin Senior University, a saxophone performance by Gwangjin Modern Saxophone, and a spirited show and group chorus by the Little Angels Arts Troupe.

In the lobby and surrounding areas, experience and health booths tailored to seniors' daily lives drew an enthusiastic response. Services included hand care, blood sugar and blood pressure checks, and ear health consultations.

"Just as the saying goes — youth is right now — today is the day your lives shine most brilliantly, and I hope you always stay in good health," District Mayor Kim Kyung-ho said. "We will continue to actively pursue thoughtful senior welfare policies so that our elders can enjoy a healthy and happy later life," he added.