Volunteerism in Seoul, Korea: A case study of the Taejeon Exposition 1993

Very few organizations use volunteers in Korea, because of a limited understanding of, and recognition for the need of volunteer activities in Korean society. This thesis explores volunteerism in Korea. It describes the historical and current philosophies, and attitudes of Korean volunteerism. It specifically examines the perception of voluntary activities, and analyzes the management skills, methods of operation, and the role of activities at the Taejeon Exposition 1993. The Exposition was an international festival of the products of multiple industries held in Taejeon, Korea. Volunteer activities at the Taejeon Expo were effective and successful. As a result, a recognition and an appreciation for volunteers are now increasing in Korea. The new developments of volunteerism in Korea are: (1) Organizational structure and effective management to support volunteerism. Volunteers are provided with benefits such as medical insurance for work-related accidents and long term disability. Providing benefits, however, instills a different message about the nature of volunteer work. The volunteer organization must come to terms with providing such benefits for voluntary efforts. (2) Education and training. Many colleges now consider the subject of volunteerism in their curricular selections. Ewha Women's University, Taegu University, Taejeon University, and Pusan University all offer courses, such as Theory and Reality of Volunteerism, History of Volunteerism, Volunteerism in Korea, and other courses about how to organize and manage volunteers. (3) The perception of volunteerism is changing. Through television and radio programs, updated information regarding volunteerism is relayed to the public. As a result, the general public has a greater appreciation for volunteerism.