Daegu to hold 20th Volunteer Service Expo at Duryu Park on Saturday

Daegu will host the 20th Daegu Volunteer Service Expo at the 2.28 Freedom Square in Duryu Park on Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., the city announced Wednesday. The event aims to promote a culture of civic volunteerism.

More than 60 booths will be set up at the expo, covering a range of themes: a volunteer registration booth where visitors can sign up and take part in on-site activities; a themed pavilion introducing the value and social role of volunteerism; a corporate pavilion showcasing volunteer initiatives by companies engaged in social contribution; and a promotional and experience pavilion highlighting major volunteer programs.

The expo will also offer a variety of performances and hands-on activities. A "Volunteer Cultural Performance Festival," staged through talent donations by volunteers, will feature musical performances, singing and dance.

Side events include a "Children's Happy Playground" for family visitors, a swap-and-share market to promote a culture of sharing and donation, and a "Year of Volunteers Practice Challenge" in which participants complete volunteer mission activities across different fields throughout the venue.

Experience programs designed to strengthen everyday safety awareness will also be available. Visitors can learn how to prepare for disasters and emergencies through hands-on activities such as packing a survival kit and practicing first aid.

A special exhibition marking the International Year of Volunteers will spotlight outstanding volunteer cases from around the world alongside Daegu's own achievements. It will also highlight the work of local volunteers who have dedicated themselves to disaster recovery efforts — including wildfire damage restoration — and community development.

Daegu Mayor Choo Kyung-ho said he hopes the expo will help raise awareness of volunteers' contributions and encourage more residents to take part. "I hope this expo will serve as an opportunity to widely recognize the hard work of volunteers and to bring more citizens together in the spirit of volunteerism," he said.