Saemaul leaders and members number over 1,000 at event featuring games and talent shows
For the first time this year, the event was held at a local stadium to ease travel and boost participation
The Seongbuk-gu Saemaul Association held its "2026 Saemaul Family One-Heart Training Rally" at the Second Wolgok Artificial Turf Stadium on Saturday, bringing together saemaul leaders for a day of unity and fellowship.
The rally broke from its usual format — an overnight, two-day retreat at the Samcheok training center — and was held within Seongbuk-gu for the first time this year. About 1,000 people attended, including saemaul leaders, guests and staff.
Moving the venue closer to home cut travel time and reduced the burden on participants, allowing more members of the saemaul community to gather in one place, strengthen ties and recognize one another's contributions.
The event was divided into an opening ceremony and a series of community activities. Participants split into four teams and took part in a fun sports competition and neighborhood talent show, fostering camaraderie and solidarity.
To ensure safe operations, Seongbuk-gu coordinated with the Seongbuk-gu Public Health Center, Jongam Police Station and Seongbuk Fire Station, and deployed safety personnel on site. Seongbuk Seongsim Clinic provided one ambulance and two paramedics to stand by for emergencies, and the event concluded without incident.
Saemaul Association President Cheon Bok-seong said the event was organized so members could come together without traveling far. "I am grateful to the saemaul leaders who have devoted themselves to the community," he said, "and I hope this rally serves as an opportunity for unity and solidarity."
Seongbuk-gu District Mayor Lee Seung-ro thanked saemaul members for their work in public health and volunteer activities across the district. "I also extend my gratitude to the partner agencies that supported medical and safety operations to ensure the event ran smoothly," he said.
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