Sharing a meal is about more than simply sitting down to eat. It is also a chance to ask how someone is doing, exchange stories, and take a moment to look out for one another. The IWPG Gwangju-South Branch shared a warm meal with local seniors, creating an opportunity for neighbors to connect and strengthen a sense of community.

The International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG) Gwangju-South Branch, led by Branch Manager Lee Kyung-ah, held a meal-sharing event on August 31 at Sunokine Boribapjip, located in Juwol-dong, Nam-gu, Gwangju. The event invited 50 local seniors who live alone to share a meal together.

Held under the theme, “A Warm Meal, A Warm Journey We Share Together,” the event was organized to encourage greater interaction among local residents and foster a community culture in which neighbors look out for one another.

A Shared Meal, A Natural Opportunity to Connect

IWPG Gwangju-South Branch members and Choi Young-rok, owner of Sunokine Boribapjip, prepared and served kongguksu and other dishes for the guests.

After the meal, participants took part in a “Memory Lucky Draw,” where they received small gifts. The familiar game brought back memories of the past and naturally sparked conversations among the participants.

For seniors who often eat alone, the gathering offered a chance to sit together with others, share a meal, and enjoy conversation.

Park, 78, who attended the event, said, “I often eat alone, so it was nice to have a meal with so many people today. The kongguksu was delicious, and the lucky draw brought back memories of the past, so I had a lot of fun.”

More Than a Meal, a Chance to Share

Choi Young-rok, owner of Sunokine Boribapjip, said, “It was very rewarding to see everyone enjoying the food we prepared and having a good time. I will continue to do my part in sharing with and supporting our neighbors in the community.”

Branch Manager Lee Kyung-ah said, “Peace begins with the small acts of looking out for one another and showing care in our everyday lives. I hope this gathering encourages people to take a moment to look around them, show greater interest in their neighbors, and share their hearts with one another.”

The event offered a reminder that meaningful connections within a community can grow from simple acts of caring, such as checking in on a neighbor and sharing a meal.

The IWPG Gwangju-South Branch plans to continue working with the local community to create opportunities for communication and connection with residents. It will also carry out various peace activities that can be practiced in everyday life, helping to spread a culture of peace throughout the community.

When a gathering that begins with a shared meal continues beyond a single event—into everyday relationships where neighbors ask about one another and share their lives—even small moments of connection can bring warmth and positive change to the community.