A New Initiative Launched to Promote Peace and Unification on the Korean Peninsula

A New Initiative for Korean Unification

On March 19, 2025, during the "HWPL's 9th Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW)" held across 93 countries, an important development aimed at bridging the divide on the Korean Peninsula was announced—the formation of the "Preparatory Committee for Peaceful Unification on the Korean Peninsula."

The event, hosted in Cheongju, South Korea, gathered around 1,000 leaders from both domestic and international backgrounds under the theme "Building Bridges for Korean Reunification: Establishing Legal and Practical Frameworks for Peace." This significant gathering outlined a detailed strategy to engage the public and encourage peaceful unification initiatives throughout the nation.

Spearheaded by HWPL (Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light), a recognized NGO with UN ECOSOC consultative status, this effort—which is part of the "Together Connecting Korea" campaign—includes the participation of nearly 170 civic organizations. The initiative seeks to bolster communication and harmony among the Korean populace, through promoting socio-cultural exchanges between North and South Korea, establishing a strong groundwork for future unification efforts.

Building a Future Together

HWPL Chairman Lee Man-hee emphasized the importance of fostering free movement as crucial for achieving unification. He stated, "The quickest route to unification lies in the implementation of free movement. It is critical to engage in unification discussions through constructive dialogue rather than forceful means. Our nation must serve as an example of peace, allowing future generations to live happily and realize our dreams."

Additionally, Ven. Seok Yeonhwa, the Chairman of the Supreme Patriarch of the World Buddhist Sangha Council, expressed the commitment to uniting hearts through advocacy campaigns, enhancing public awareness and support for unification via education, and undertaking research regarding social and economic integration post-unification.

Kim Yeong-geun, the 32nd Rector of Sungkyunkwan University, advocated for the establishment of a robust legal and institutional framework that would endure through any political changes, highlighting the necessity of continuity in efforts toward unification.

A Legal Framework for Unification

An integral moment of the event included the presentation of a draft for "The Constitution Establishing a Unified Korea" by Professor Ciarán Burke from Friedrich-Schiller University Jena. This draft, developed by the HWPL International Law Peace Committee, aims to lay down the legal foundations for a united Korea. Key aspects include objectives for denuclearization and a peace system designed to ensure the protection of citizens' rights and welfare. Professor Burke noted that this initiative would contribute significantly to advancing the cause of Korean unification and ensuring regional and global peace.

Global Participation and Support

Moreover, the "Together Campaign's Connect Korea Challenge" website (https://togetherconnectkorea.kr/) is actively encouraging participation in advocating for unification and garnering international support. In a remarkable display of interest, within a mere 10 days, participants from 243 cities across 72 countries contributed over 1,350 content pieces, evidencing a global desire for peaceful unification on the Korean Peninsula.

As the initiative progresses, it stands as a poignant reminder of the collaborative efforts necessary to bridge divisions and work toward a shared future of peace and unity on the Korean Peninsula. The formation of the Preparatory Committee signifies not just a step towards direct negotiations, but a holistic approach to raising awareness and support for the cause among diverse demographics and global audiences.