Detail

`April 20, 1982 marks the 60th anniversary of the Young Women`s Christian Association (YWCA) of Korea. YWCA was originated in England in 1855 as an organization for promoting the spiritual, intellectual, social, and economic welfare of young women, and also for fostering their social service in accordance with Christian spirit. It has since grown into an international association, which has its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, with national and local organization in nearly all civilized countries. In Korea, YWCA was organized in 1922 by Pilley Kim, Helen Kim and Kak-kyung Yu-the three forerunners of Korean women`s movement. Under their leadership, YWCA members played a role significant in Korean women`s history, freeing women from the age-old binding tradition and awakening them to the new age that required their active participation in the service to society and the nation. After the Liberation in 1945, which made women`s social activities outside the home easier, YWCA widened its scope of service, including helping women make the most of their spare moments and improve themselves constantly to be competent enough to lead active social lives. Today, Korean YWCA, with 21 local organizations that have 900,000 members, is making a great contribution to building a society of justice and peace by teaching to practise Christian spirit and working for consumer protection, children`s welfare, youth counseling and the development of jobs for women, among others. On the occasion of the 60th anniversary of Korean YWCA, the Ministry of Communications issues this commemorative stamp in recognition of its social service and also in the hope that it will continue its brilliant activities for social well-being.`