Woori Bank Spreads the Value of Peace Through a Walking Event Commemorating the 150th Anniversary of Baekbeom Kim Gu’s Birth

Woori Bank is taking meaningful steps to honor the legacy of Mr. Baekbeom Kim Gu and promote the values of peace and cultural heritage preservation. Held in the Yongsan district of Seoul on the occasion of World Peace Day, this event served as an opportunity to reflect on the preciousness of our culture by walking in the footsteps of a historical figure. The event carries even greater significance this year, as it marks the 150th anniversary of Mr. Kim Gu’s birth, designated by UNESCO. Many citizens, who typically spend their weekends glued to their smartphones or visiting nearby cafes, were able to experience history firsthand by walking with their own feet. In this article, we will take a closer look at the efforts a financial institution with a history rooted in national capital is making to fulfill its social responsibilities.

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Woori Bank Spreads the Value of Peace Through a Walking Event Commemorating the 150th Anniversary of Baekbeom Kim Gu’s Birth

1. The Footsteps of Peace Resounding on World Peace Day

To mark World Peace Day, Woori Bank partnered with the UNESCO Korea Commission to host a special outdoor event. The event was held in various locations centered around the Baekbeom Kim Gu Memorial Hall and Hyochang Park in the Yongsan district of Seoul. The occasion was graced by the presence of key bank executives, officials from the Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, and representatives from the commemorative association. Participants walked around the memorial hall, embracing the autumn breeze and infusing their steps with messages of peace. Despite it being early on a weekend morning, numerous citizens voluntarily participated, creating a lively atmosphere. Participants unanimously stated that they were deeply moved, feeling the spirit of their ancestors at a historical site rather than just taking a simple stroll. In particular, family participants who brought their children noted that it served as a natural educational setting to learn how precious peace is. Thanks to the flow of the event, which transitioned directly from the indoor exhibition to the outdoor course, attendees were able to address both historical learning and physical health simultaneously. Event organizers made thorough preparations to prevent safety accidents and ensured that all participants could complete the walk safely. Such a meaningful event provided modern people, weary from daily life, with a precious opportunity to pause and reflect on the meaning of peace.

2. Continuing Baekbeom Kim Gu’s Vision of a Cultural Powerhouse

The official slogan of this event, “Peace We Create, Heritage We Protect Together,” resonated strongly with participants. During his lifetime, Mr. Baekbeom Kim Gu advocated that a nation becomes strong only through the power of culture, and that this constitutes true peace. Since this year marks the 150th anniversary of the birth of this great pioneer, the event holds the significance of reinterpreting his vision in a modern context. Each step taken by the participants was like magic, bringing the dream of a cultural powerhouse that the late Mr. Kim Gu envisioned into the present. The act of not forgetting history and putting it into practice left a deep impression on citizens passing by. While many people tend to think of history as letters preserved in books, this event proved that to be incorrect, as participants could feel the weight of the heritage left by their ancestors with their whole bodies by stepping on the ground. One citizen who participated on-site shared that although they had little interest in history previously, walking the course helped them understand Mr. Kim Gu’s heart to some extent. In this way, Woori Bank is having a positive impact on raising public historical awareness beyond simple financial services. The will of the pioneer who believed in the power of culture came alive once again through the footsteps of those living in the autumn of 2026.

3. Woori Bank’s Sincere Support for Cultural Heritage Preservation

Woori Bank is not limiting its efforts to one-off events; since April, it has maintained systematic support through a close business agreement with the UNESCO Korea Commission. This walking event was planned as a representative activity in the continuation of the cultural heritage preservation projects it has consistently carried out. In his commemorative speech, Woori Bank President Jung Jin-wan emphasized the historical sense of mission of a bank established with pure national capital in 1899. He stated that helping future generations grow with pride in our culture is the creation of true social value. To this end, he pledged unwavering investment in various contribution activities aimed at creating a sustainable society. In an era where voices are growing louder that financial institutions must play a role beyond lending money and collecting interest, this is a highly exemplary case. It goes beyond the method of returning corporate profits to society, actively engaging in the preservation of cultural heritage, which is directly linked to national identity. Such sincere actions serve to further enhance customer trust and affinity with the financial institution. Indeed, many people who have come into contact with the bank’s philosophy have voluntarily posted praise and encouragement on social media. This is precisely why there is high anticipation for the various public-interest actions Woori Bank will show in the future.

4. Employee-Led Volunteering and Participatory Campaigns

This event gains further significance as it involves not only executives but also general employees who voluntarily participate. Woori Bank employees are scheduled to visit World Heritage sites across the country directly using the company’s volunteering platform until November. They will visit precious historic sites representing Korea, such as Changdeokgung Palace, Namhansanseong Fortress, and Bulguksa Temple, to clean the surroundings and raise awareness about the importance of preservation. After visiting the sites, they share vivid reviews on their personal social media to encourage more people to join in. The sight of office workers giving up their weekend rest to engage in meaningful activities is an indicator of how healthy the corporate culture is. An environment where anyone can easily participate through the internal volunteering platform has led to a very high response rate among employees. By walking through historic sites with colleagues, they are able to strengthen camaraderie while accomplishing a meaningful task, enjoying a two-for-one benefit. Participating employees unanimously stated that by taking photos, posting them, and sharing their impressions, they are reminded once again of the preciousness of our heritage. This proves that a culture of voluntary participation, where employees seek out activities themselves rather than being instructed by the company, has taken deep root. The warm gestures of these employees are becoming a driving force that spreads positive energy to every corner of the Republic of Korea.

5. Launch of Special Financial Products Infused with History

Woori Bank is drawing significant attention by unveiling meaningful participatory financial products to commemorate the 150th anniversary. These are fixed-term deposits and savings products named “Our Wish,” where simply opening an account means participating in a meaningful cause. As the name suggests, the products embody the aspirations for peace, unification, and national prosperity, differentiating them from ordinary deposits and savings. The products are designed so that each time a customer opens an account, the bank accumulates a certain amount to be used for public interest projects. The response has been enthusiastic since launch, as customers can enjoy the fun of saving money while simultaneously caring for the country. This demonstrates that bank products are evolving into mediums that realize social value, going beyond mere tools for asset growth. Inquiries are pouring in from various age groups, from young generations interested in wealth management to middle-aged and senior customers who value historical significance. Many customers are willing to choose these products even if the interest rate is slightly lower, because they are confident that their money is being put to good use. Financial experts predict that this type of product will lead a new trend in the financial market. This attempt, which skillfully combines history and finance, serves as an excellent example of how far corporate social responsibility can extend.

6. Envisioning the Future of Peace and Cultural Heritage

Woori Bank’s current actions and series of activities provide a clear direction on how companies should coexist with society. It deserves high marks for reinterpreting the philosophy of a historical figure in a modern context and drawing public participation, going beyond simple monetary donations. The employees’ volunteering and various support projects, which will continue until the end of the year, will continue to provide a quiet but profound moving experience for our society. It has become a precious opportunity to remind modern people, living busy lives, once again of the values we must protect. I sincerely hope that this positive influence will spread widely throughout the financial sector in the future. Readers, how about putting down your smartphones this coming weekend and walking to a nearby historic site or park? Please see and touch the precious cultural heritage left by our ancestors with your own eyes and hands, and reflect on the meaning contained within. I hope that Woori Bank’s event serves as a time to think a little more deeply about our history and the value of peace. Even just enjoying a light walk with friends and neighbors and sharing meaningful conversations can be a great source of vitality in daily life. We promise to promptly share various news that warms our society, and we conclude this article here.

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