In an inspiring global gathering, Global Peace Foundation’s (GPF) partner Global Peace Women (GPW) recently hosted the second session of its Korean Dream Study Series, drawing young leaders and changemakers from around the world. The learning circle, held virtually on May 31, 2025, and led by Risa Perea, focused on the theme “History and the Drive for Change,” highlighting how lessons from Korea’s past can illuminate paths to peace and unity today.
The Korean Dream Study Series is rooted in the philosophy of Hongik Ingan (to broadly benefit all humanity), a timeless ideal from Korea’s founding legend. The initiative aims to engage youth in meaningful dialogue, connecting Korea’s historical journey, including the independence movement and the Korean War, to global movements for peace, freedom, and shared identity.
“Each one of you is a leader, a changemaker, and a voice for peace in your own communities,” said moderator Tahmina in her opening remarks. “Your presence is a powerful sign of hope.”
The session featured reflection on past assignments, during which participants creatively shared how the Korean Dream resonates with their local contexts, from South Asia to Africa. These reflections emphasized that the vision of peace and unity is not confined to the Korean peninsula but echoes universal hopes for reconciliation, justice, and transformation.
Risa Perea praised participants for connecting their countries’ histories to the Korean Dream. She highlighted an essay drawing parallels between Nepal’s civil war and the vision for Korean reunification. Another essay from a Bangladeshi participant framed the Korean Dream as part of a global peace movement, showcasing how young people across nations are internalizing and promoting shared values.
GPW President Hanako Ikeno offered powerful reflections on women’s roles in national and global peacebuilding. “We are the first educators of our children. We set the tone of the house and culture,” she emphasized. “Through our daily actions and traditions, we plant the seeds for the visions that build nations.”
The study circle also included a lighthearted group activity and a quiz on Korean history. Participants recalled facts about Korea’s colonization, the 1919 independence movement, and the Korean War. This interactive segment served as a reminder of Korea’s resilience and global solidarity during difficult times, when 22 nations came together under the United Nations (UN) to support freedom.
Participants shared personal experiences through an icebreaker activity, revealing a rich tapestry of cultural tastes, from Tanzanian wedding songs to Ugandan films and Bangladeshi literature. These stories created a heartfelt sense of connection, transcending borders and reinforcing the program’s goal: to unite youth through shared vision and mutual understanding.
Closing the session, the speakers reiterated that the Korean Dream is not just about Korean reunification. It’s a vision for global peace, beginning with the family unit. “True peace begins with strong families,” Risa concluded, encouraging everyone to act where they are, at home, in communities, and across nations.
As the series continues, GPW is nurturing a global network of value-driven leaders committed to collaboration, history-informed advocacy, and building a future grounded in peace and shared humanity. Participants are invited to learn and take action. The Korean Dream calls on people around the world to envision a peaceful, unified Korea as a stepping stone to global peace.
To join this global movement, show your support, and stay updated on future Korean Dream Study Series sessions, sign up for our newsletters, Global Peace Women and Global Peace Foundation.
Sign your support for the Korean Dream: http://globalpeace.info/intl-for-one-korea.
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