29th Senior Citizens’ Day Commemoration: “Your Sweat and Effort Have Become Our History”

- Special event held for older adults, with about 400 awardees and family members invited -

- “Longevity canes” presented to two centenarians, along with commendations for 34 individuals for their contributions to senior welfare -

The Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW, Minister Jeong Eun Kyeong) hosted the 29th Senior Citizens’ Day Commemoration Ceremony on Thursday, October 2, at 11:00 a.m., in the Crystal Ballroom of Lotte Hotel Seoul.

   * Established under Article 6 of the Welfare of Senior Citizens Act (enacted August 1997), Senior Citizens’ Day is observed on October 2 each year, with October designated as Senior Citizens’ Month, to draw public attention to older adults and foster respect for them

The ceremony was attended by MOHW Minister Jeong Eun Kyeong; Jang Dong-hyeok, Chairperson of the People Power Party; Park Joo-min, Chair of the National Assembly Health and Welfare Committee; representatives of senior citizens’ organizations, including the Korean Senior Citizens Association; as well as awardees and their families, totaling about 400 participants.

Following a written congratulatory message from President Lee Jae Myung, Minister Jeong presented the Cheongnyeojang (longevity canes) to centenarians Park Soon-rye and Kim Jun-bae, representing the 2,568 Koreans who turned 100 this year, wishing them continued health and long life.

   * As of the end of August 2025, Korea has 8,891 centenarians (1,553 men and 7,338 women), according to resident registration statistics

   * The Cheongnyeojang is a light yet sturdy cane made from white goosefoot, symbolizing health and longevity. The tradition dates back to the Unified Silla period, when kings bestowed it as a blessing of long life

In addition, videos highlighting the healthy and active daily lives of the two centenarian honorees were shown during the ceremony, conveying hopes for the continued health and happiness of older adults.

At the event, 34 individuals and organizations were recognized for their dedication to advancing senior welfare in Korea.

   * This year’s awards included two recipients of the Order of Civil Merit, two recipients of the Civil Merit Medal, 13 Presidential Citations, and 17 Prime Minister’s Citations

Koo Ja-hoon, Director of the Geumcheon Senior Welfare Center, received the Order of Civil Merit Dongbaek Medal in recognition of more than 38 years of service promoting unity and welfare among seniors in the community. His achievements include introducing specialized rehabilitation programs for seniors with disabilities, expanding in-home care services, and creating senior employment opportunities—initiatives that have advanced both senior welfare and community development.

Cheon Du-sik, Head of the Ulsan Dong-gu branch of the Korean Senior Citizens Association, was awarded the Order of Civil Merit Seongnyu Medal for over 33 years of service. His efforts include expanding senior welfare facilities and job opportunities, operating the “Hyosarang Learning Hall” to foster intergenerational bonds and spread a culture of respect for elders, and organizing annual initiatives to support about 70 disadvantaged seniors in the community.

In a message read on his behalf by Minister Jeong, President Lee Jae Myung conveyed his respect and gratitude to senior citizens. He stated, “The life paths that our seniors have walked collectively shaped today’s proud Republic of Korea. We pay tribute to the dedication and sacrifices of our seniors, who have stood as the backbone of our society through turbulent times. The government will remain a strong supporter to ensure that seniors enjoy a happy and healthy later life.”

In his congratulatory remarks, Lee Joong-keun, Chairman of the Korean Senior Citizens Association, also affirmed, “We will do our utmost to promote senior welfare, protect seniors’ rights, and improve quality of life so that older adults can lead healthier and more vibrant lives.” 

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