23/02/2026
Korean Volunteers serve Campus with Service and Spice
The scent of spicy tteokbokki and the vibrant strokes of fresh paint transformed our campus into a mini-Seoul on February 19 and February 23, 2026 as the Anseong Volunteer Center Team of South Korea arrived for a day of cross-cultural service. From the buzzing sound of hair clippers to the colorful mess of t-shirt printing, the visiting team of 30 Korean volunteers led by Kim Dongsung, Head of the Anseong Volunteer Center together with Rev. Oh Sung Hong of Panacan Christian Church proved that their culture is about much more than just catchy music and television dramas; it’s about jeong (a deep sense of connection and care).
The most visible change started at 9:00 AM outside the school campus near the school gate. Equipped with brushes and paints, a team of art volunteers did a mural painting project. What was once a drab, grey concrete wall is now a soaring "Bridge of Friendship," featuring caricature wearing Korean traditional costumes.
"We wanted to leave something permanent," said Rev. Oh Sung Hong. “Every time a student passes this wall, we hope they feel the energy and friendship we brought from Korea."
While the muralists were busy outside, the building 4 corridor was converted into a makeshift lifestyle hub where Korean volunteers offered free haircuts for teachers and students
"I was a bit nervous at first," laughed Erna, who availed the service. "But they’re professional! It feels like I walked out of a salon in Myeongdong."
Next to the stylists, the "Design Zone" was a hive of activity. Students lined up with plain white shirts to try their hand for t-shirt printing. The volunteers brought custom-designed stamps featuring Korean calligraphy and other symbols. By noon, the room was a sea of fresh white tees, each a unique souvenir of the day.
The volunteers also brought a touch of whimsy with face and hand painting, decorating students with delicate flowers and symbols. Nearby, a ribbon clip-making was a hit for those looking to add aesthetic to their hair.
Of course, this would not be complete without a feast. The volunteers unveiled a massive spread of authentic Korean food. For many students, it was their first time tasting the real-deal tteokbokki- a spicy rice cake dish that had many reaching for water but coming back for seconds.
"Sharing food is the best way to understand each other," explained Lee Jisoon, as she served a steaming bowl of japchae (glass noodles). "In Korea, we say that eating together makes you family."
As the sun began to set, the team packed away their brushes and clippers, the atmosphere was one of bittersweet "Annyeongs" (goodbyes). The event wasn't just about free services; it was about the stories shared over a bowl of food and the high-fives exchanged over a painted wall.
Dr. Santiago Dakudao Sr. National High School led by our School Principal, Josephine A. Basillo, Principal III, expressed her deepest gratitude to the Anseong Volunteer Center and Panacan Christian Church for choosing our community. She noted that the generosity of the volunteers has left a mark that goes far beyond the physical gifts.
While the volunteers will soon return to South Korea, their legacy remains: in our new haircuts, our custom t-shirts, the lingering spice on our palates, and the vibrant mural that has permanently brightened our school days.
