Daily Busan
A conversation with the president of United Fil-Korean Families
Every year, the Busan Global City Foundation hosts Global Gathering, a celebration of the city’s multiculturalism. During the event, international communities come together to showcase their cultures and promote mutual understanding and inclusivity.
This year’s participants include United Fil-Korean Families, a vibrant community of residents from the Philippines. Daily Busan spoke with Maria Cherry Ann Baek, the president of UFF, on the importance of Global Gathering in fostering a diverse society.
Q. Please introduce yourself and United Fil-Korean Families.
My name is Maria Cherry Ann Baek, and I am the president of United Fil-Korean Families. UFF is a community-based organization that supports and empowers multicultural families, especially those with Filipino-Korean backgrounds, here in Busan. Our mission is to promote inclusivity, cultural understanding, and mutual support among diverse communities.
UFF was founded in 2019 in response to the growing need for support among multicultural families in Busan, particularly Filipino-Korean households. What started as a small support group has grown into an active and vibrant community. We support migrant workers and Filipino students as well.
Q. What kind of activities does UFF carry out in Busan?
We organize and participate in various activities, such as Global Gathering, cultural exchange events, language support programs, events for empowering marriage migrants and volunteer initiatives. We aim to create a safe space where multicultural families can connect, share experiences and grow together.
To date, UFF has supported over 150 families and organized more than 50 cultural and educational events. We are especially proud of our youth mentoring and family wellness initiatives, which have had a meaningful impact on strengthening family bonds and promoting cultural identity.
Q. Could you tell us about your involvement with Global Gathering?
Yes, we are proud to have been part of several events hosted by the Busan Global City Foundation, especially the annual Global Gathering. It’s a vibrant celebration of cultures where we share and showcase Filipino traditions, food and performances with the broader community. For us, it’s an opportunity to showcase our heritage and build bridges with other communities in Busan.
This year, UFF plans to host a Filipino food booth, present a traditional dance performance and offer interactive cultural activities for visitors. We are also collaborating with other multicultural groups to promote unity and solidarity through shared experiences.
We’re also excited to introduce a new storytelling segment featuring multicultural family experiences, which we hope will create deeper emotional connections with attendees.
Q. What made you participate in the Global Gathering event?
We believe visibility and cultural representation are key to building a more inclusive society. Participating in the Global Gathering allows us to educate others about our culture, celebrate diversity and promote mutual respect. It’s also a joyful and empowering experience for our members, especially the younger generation.
Q. Why are cultural exchange events like this important?
Cultural exchange events like the Global Gathering are essential for fostering understanding and harmony in a diverse society. They break down stereotypes, create meaningful connections and remind us that our differences are something to be celebrated. These events contribute greatly to building a more welcoming and inclusive Busan.
<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>
celebration: 기념 행사 multiculturalism: 다문화주의 mutual: 상호적인 inclusivity: 포용성 empower: 힘을 실어주다 marriage migrant: 결혼 이민자 heritage: 유산 segment: 부분 visibility: 가시성 diversity: 다양성 contribute: 기여하다
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