▲ Shin Gu-beom and Koh Hee-bum. Photo supplied by Jeju Forum C

Determining the future of a society is no small task.

Societies are at their best when developed in a democratic and inclusive way which recognizes the inherent wisdom of all members. On a foundation built by elders and infused with the ideas and enthusiasm of the young, a robust society emerges.

This is the quest of Jeju Forum C.

Now in its second year, the NGO – built on the premise of “Change, Challenge, and Communication” – has launched a comprehensive program to contribute to the determination of Jeju's future.

In the organization's first year, it held a series of lectures and field outings to help improve Jeju's residents' awareness of their island. Included were such diverse topics as economics, politics, history, natural beauty and traditional customs.

Building on that basis, Jeju Forum C has begun a multi-part program. Part I, “Find the Way of Elders,” seeks to develop a pool of wisdom on a variety of topics in lectures delivered by Jeju's “elders” – those who have been or currently are in positions of leadership.

“Some, even those invited to speak, questioned 'why elders?' as they feel that the youth of Jeju should be the ones to take our society's development forward,” expressed representative Koh Hee-bum.

Without elders, however, a tribe is also without roots – just as without a knowledge of history we are doomed to repeat it. As Koh acknowledged, Jeju can learn not only from the success of its leaders but also from their failures.

The series of lectures will take place every Wednesday evening at 7 p.m. in the Donam-dong area of Gu-Jeju at the Chamber of Commerce. The series began on April 20, and three lectures have been held at the time of this publication. Lectures will continue through July 6.

▲ Photo supplied by Jeju Forum C