North Gyeongsang Province holds welfare event for visually impaired on White Cane Day

North Gyeongsang Province held the 47th White Cane Day Welfare Event for the Visually Impaired at the Yeongju National Sports Center on Friday.

About 1,600 people attended, including visually impaired residents and their families, guests and volunteers. The event featured a reading of the White Cane Charter, commendations for 62 individuals recognized for their contributions to welfare services, scholarship presentations, and cultural and sports activities.

White Cane Day marks the independence and social integration of people with visual impairments. It traces its origins to 1980, when the World Blind Union designated Oct. 15 as an annual commemorative day.

A White Cane March kicked off at 9 a.m. at the Yeongju Youth Culture Center, drawing about 200 visually impaired participants and volunteers who walked 0.8 kilometers to a nearby eatery to raise awareness of the white cane's significance.

Pre-ceremony performances included a samulnori set by the Anjeong Pungmuldan troupe and a guest singer.

The main ceremony featured a reading of the White Cane Charter, commendations for those who have contributed to improving welfare for the visually impaired, and scholarship awards. A traditional Korean archery competition and a singing contest followed, giving participants and their families time to mingle and connect.

"I hope this event served as a meaningful occasion to spread awareness of the significance and value of the white cane and to deepen understanding of and empathy for people with visual impairments," said Lee Bu-hyeong, chief of political affairs for North Gyeongsang Province.