[Herald Economy = Park Jong-il, Senior Reporter] Gangseo District in Seoul held a well-attended Parents' Day celebration on May 7 at Yewon Church, drawing roughly 2,000 seniors and receiving warm applause and heartfelt responses.The event, billed under the slogan "Gratitude in Filial Piety, Love in Filial Piety, Thanks to Our Elders," aimed to honor the seniors who contributed to the development of society and to promote a culture of respect and filial devotion.
The program opened with a variety of pre-ceremony performances: the Yewon Senior Cultural College team's jugeok nanta (spoon percussion), traditional dance showcasing classic beauty, and an energetic janggu drum performance.
At the commemorative ceremony, officials recognized 25 individuals for their service, including exemplary seniors and contributors to senior welfare.
Je Eun-young, president of the Gangseo District chapter of the Korea Senior Citizens Association, told attendees that health is the most important concern for seniors and expressed a sincere hope to see everyone healthy at next year’s event. Her remarks drew strong agreement from the audience.
The program’s centerpiece, the Hyo (Filial Piety) Concert, elevated the festive atmosphere. Composer-singer Shin Jae-dong opened the concert with songs such as "Returning to Samgakji" and "Gugu Baekbaek," expressing his wish that seniors live vibrantly and healthily into their 100s; he was met with enthusiastic applause.
Gugak prodigy Kim Tae-yeon followed with stirring performances of "I Am a Flower" and "Carnation Song," delivering a deeply resonant set.
In a particularly touching moment, an elderly attendee climbed the stage and pressed a crisp 50,000 KRW bill (about $37.50 USD) into Kim Tae-yeon’s hand. “I’ve been a fan since Miss Trot 2. She feels like a granddaughter to me, and I wanted to give her some pocket money, so I mustered the courage,” he said, prompting warm reactions from the crowd.
Popular trot singer Jo Hang-jo closed the performances. He sang four consecutive songs, including "Searching for Love, Searching for Life" and "Thank You," and many delighted seniors danced in front of the stage, enjoying the festival wholeheartedly.
Side events on the front lawn were lively as well. District staff carefully pinned carnations on each senior as they entered. Attendees posed for commemorative photos in the photo zone and participated in job counseling and health quiz booths, making the day both enjoyable and useful.
A district official said, “We extend our deep respect and gratitude to the seniors who led our society’s development. We hope today’s event provided them comfort. We will continue to expand senior employment and improve welfare facilities so our elders can enjoy active, fulfilling retirements.”
