Gwangjin-gu children's centers take on Achasan with plogging campaign

Gwangjin-gu hosted the "Gwangjin-gu Children's Center Achasan Plogging Campaign" on Saturday, organized by the Gwangjin-gu Local Children's Center Council.

"Plogging" refers to picking up litter while walking or jogging. The event was designed to give children and youth from local children's centers a chance to stay active in nature, practice environmental stewardship and build a sense of community through shared effort.

About 200 people took part, including children and youth from 13 local children's centers across the district, as well as center staff, parents and volunteers.

The event kicked off with an opening ceremony at 10 a.m. at Achasan Eoulim Plaza and ran for about two hours. Participants split into three groups along separate routes — from the Achasan Management Office to Haemaji Plaza, from Eoulim Plaza to Haemaji Plaza, and from the Yeonghwasa entrance to Haemaji Plaza — collecting cigarette butts and other litter along the way.

Alongside the cleanup, participants carried out a campaign to raise awareness about carbon neutrality and the importance of environmental protection.

The children and youth reflected on how small actions can make a real difference in preserving nature as they worked to clean up Achasan. They also interacted with peers from other centers and took part in activities that gave back to the local community.

Gwangjin-gu District Mayor Kim Kyung-ho said he was proud to see the children putting in the effort to care for Achasan. "We will continue to support a wide range of activities so that children can strengthen their bodies and minds in nature and grow up bright and healthy," he said.

Gwangjin-gu currently operates 13 local children's centers, which provide comprehensive child welfare services to children and youth who need after-school care — including protection, education, recreational and cultural activities, and connections to guardians and the wider community.