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10 Key Trends in South Korean Volunteering for 2026 (Part 1)

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  In recent years, South Korea has seen sustained interest across government and society in ESG and CSR initiatives. Earlier this year, the government established the 'Social Contribution Innovation Advisory Group.' Created to support corporate social contribution effectively, this body positions the government as a key facilitator working alongside the private sector. Through this initiative, the government aims to help corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs deliver tangible outcomes that citizens can genuinely feel.   In tandem with these policy efforts, corporations are actively pursuing volunteer programs as a cornerstone of their CSR strategies. What distinguishes current corporate volunteering from the past is its evolution into a catalyst for driving real, substantive change across our society.   Furthermore, 2026 marks the United Nations' International Year of Volunteers. This global declaration underscores the imperative to listen to community voi...
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[Interview] Reflecting on Identity: Moving Forward with Conviction (Part 2)

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  'Identity' is by no means a lightweight word. It signifies the unchanging essence of existence — a term carrying profound weight and one that demands clear understanding.   Understanding identity is equally vital in the social and solidarity economy (SSE), because a clear sense of identity empowers us to move forward with resilience and purpose.   This article is the second part of the interview with a South Korean SSE expert on why we must continuously reflect on our identity. I hope this conversation offers meaningful insights to everyone exploring their own identity and purpose.   Minsoo Kang, Executive Director of the Korea Social Solidarity Economy Alliance (Photo by Milly) Interviewee: Minsoo Kang, Executive Director of the Korea Social Solidarity Economy Alliance   👉👉Read Part 1 First [Interview] Questioning the Identity of South Korea's Social and Solidarity Economy (Part 1)   Q: In the past, the social economy focused primar...
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[Interview] Questioning the Identity of South Korea's Social and Solidarity Economy (Part 1)

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  What is the first step before embarking on new initiatives? In my view, it is constantly reflecting on and questioning our 'identity.' The essence of identity lies in providing certainty. To define our direction, initiate new work, and build solidarity with others, we need that core certainty. Identity serves as an unchanging foundation and a reliable compass showing where we are headed and why.   What identity does South Korea's Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) hold today? And how does Korea's historical and cultural heritage influence this modern identity? In 2022, the Korea Social Solidarity Economy Alliance (formerly the Korea Social Economy Alliance) published the "2022 Social Economy Identity Report." The report reviewed the history, achievements, and current landscape of South Korea's SSE to redefine its identity.   I sat down with Minsoo Kang, Executive Director of the Korea Social Solidarity Economy Alliance, who co-authored the repor...
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South Korea Passes the Framework Act on Social and Solidarity Economy!

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  On August 20, South Korea's National Assembly finally passed the Framework Act on the Social and Solidarity Economy. This milestone comes 13 years after practitioners in the field first called for comprehensive legislation. Colleagues across the social impact sector shared congratulations and applause. Given the long journey to this point, the prevailing sentiment is that field perspectives must continue to guide the ongoing implementation and refinement of the law.   This article outlines the core provisions of the newly enacted Framework Act and explores what it means for the ecosystem.   Defining Social and Solidarity Economy🍪   The Framework Act defines the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) as follows: "Economic activities conducted based on mutual aid, cooperation, and solidarity to achieve shared community benefits and deliver social values."   One of the most significant aspects of the Framework Act is that it bridges previously fragm...
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