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Protecting the Human Rights of the Elderly, Together – Busan Holds the “9th World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Commemoration Event”

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The Busan Metropolitan City (Mayor Park Heong-joon) announced that the “9th World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Commemoration Event” was held yesterday (June 11) at 2:00 p.m. in the main conference room of the Busan Metropolitan Council.

○ Now in its ninth year, the event featured a variety of programs designed to foster a social atmosphere that encourages the prevention of elder abuse and the protection of senior citizens’ rights.

○ The event was hosted by the City of Busan and organized by the Busan Eastern, Western, and Central Elder Protection Agencies.

○ Since 2017, the city has held this annual event to call attention to the seriousness of elder abuse and to improve how seniors are treated in society.

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Over 100 people, including city officials, stakeholders from related organizations, and elderly citizens, attended the event, which included:
▲ a commendation ceremony for those who have contributed to elder rights
▲ a symbolic performance promoting elder abuse prevention
▲ a fusion gugak music performance
▲ a book concert centered on the theme of “respecting and promoting the rights of the elderly.”

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The event began with a commendation ceremony recognizing individuals from partner institutions who have contributed to advancing elder rights.

○ The Mayor’s commendations were awarded to two private citizens who had dedicated themselves to protecting the rights of seniors and preventing elder abuse.

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At the book concert, author Kim Woong-cheol—known for his book How Super-Aged Japan Lives—led a Q&A-style talk encouraging the audience to reflect on love for seniors and filial piety within families.

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In addition, an art exhibition was held outside the main conference room to raise awareness about aging and elder abuse.

○ Ten paintings by artist Lim Hee-jung were displayed under the theme “Why Are You So Cute?” focusing on preventing elder abuse and shifting perceptions about aging.

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Jeong Tae-gi, Director-General of the City’s Welfare Bureau, remarked:
“This event was a meaningful opportunity for leaders and officials from related institutions—those who should be most committed to elder rights and abuse prevention—to come together and reflect on their responsibilities.” He added,
“Busan will continue doing its utmost to create a city where seniors live well, with the conviction that their rights must be protected anytime, anywhere.”

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[Attachment: Event Overview]

• ●Event Title: 9th World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Commemoration Event

• ●Date & Time: Wednesday, June 11, 2025 / 14:00–16:00

• ●Venue: 2nd Floor Main Conference Room, Busan Metropolitan Council

• ●Participants: Approximately 100 people (organization officials, award recipients, etc.)

• ●Program: Commendation ceremony, opening remarks, performance, book concert

• ●Hosted/Organized by: Busan Metropolitan City / Busan Eastern, Western, and Central Elder Protection Agencies

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[Event Schedule]

Part	Time	Details	Presenter
Part 1 (Ceremony)	14:00–14:03	Opening & National Anthem	Host
	14:03–14:06	Introduction of Guests	Host
	14:06–14:09	Congratulatory Speech	President, Busan Social Service Agency
	14:09–14:12	Welcome Remarks	Director of Welfare Bureau (on behalf of the Senior Welfare Division Chief)
	14:12–14:16	Commendation Ceremony	Director of Welfare Bureau
	14:16–14:19	Elder Abuse Prevention Performance	Distinguished Guests & Awardees
	14:19–14:20	Closing of Part 1 / Transition	Host
Part 2 (Book Concert)	14:20–14:30	Fusion Gugak Performance	Vocalist Ahn I-seo
	14:30–16:00	Book Concert: How Super-Aged Japan Lives	Author Kim Woong-cheol