[IPYG]

[IPYG] IPYG's Friends: Gun Free South Africa (GFSA)

Chairman ManHee Lee is the head representative of the global peace organization HWPL (Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light), which is striving for the enactment and implementation of the international peace law 'Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW)'. The  DPCW is a legal instrument comprised of 10 articles and 38 clauses that can end wars and hostilities throughout the world. HWPL is also spreading a culture of peace and implementing peace education.

Chairman ManHee Lee experienced the cruelty and tragedy of war as a veteran of the Korean War. This is one of the reasons why he founded a global peace campaign as the head of HWPL. He has traveled the globe more than 35 times to meet and persuade politicians, legal experts, journalists, professors, peace activists, civil organization leaders, heads of tribes and others to unite them for the work of peace. The significant fruits borne out of his hard work are the World Alliance of Religions' Peace (WARP) Summit and HWPL Peace Committee. The DPCW was drafted and finalised by the HWPL Peace Committee.

How, you may wonder, do I know this? About 10 years ago, when I had just been discharged from military service, I came to know HWPL and Chairman ManHee Lee while researching the topic of civil conflicts to satisfy my curiosity in ongoing global issues. At that time, the island of Mindanao in the Philippines was suffering from a major civil conflict that lasted more than 40 years, and Chairman ManHee Lee and HWPL resolved this conflict through non-violent means.

Chairman Lee brought an end to the conflict in Mindanao by holding a peace talk between the warring Catholic and Islamic groups. Before the talk, HWPL and Chairman ManHee Lee held a Peace Walk to spread the culture of peace in Mindanao with the many locals who had gathered out of a desire for peace.

Chairman ManHee Lee's pressing appeal today is that humanity unites for sustainable peace in order to pass on the legacy of peace to future generations worldwide. He doesn't just talk peace, but has worked tirelessly for it through practical peace campaigns for over a decade.

I decided to become a supporter of HWPL and Chairman ManHee Lee's peace initiatives because I also desire a world of peace for all posterity.

Today I'd like to introduce an article regarding HWPL's affiliate youth group, IPYG's affiliate organization: Gun Free South Africa (GFSA)

Introducing an IPYG Affiliate Organization – Gun Free South Africa (GFSA)

Youth Dialogue on Violence in South Africa at the University of Johannesburg

Gun Free South Africa (hereinafter “GFSA”) is a non-profit civil society organization founded in Johannesburg in 1995. Operating in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and other cities, GFSA works to reduce gun violence through policy advocacy, research, education, and community action.

Over the past 30 years, GFSA has steadily carried out gun control activities. Among them, it submitted materials to the Constitutional Court, contributing to the unanimous ruling that gun ownership is not an inherent right and may be regulated by law, and it also participated in the process of enacting the Firearms Control Act of 2000. Led by Dr. Stanley Maphosa as Representative since March 2025, GFSA actively carries out its mission across Gauteng and the Western Cape.

GFSA and IPYG first met at the 10th Anniversary Commemoration of the HWPL World Peace Summit held in Cape Town in 2024

The partnership between GFSA and IPYG began in 2024 when Monique Hansen, GFSA’s Cape Town Branch Coordinator, participated as a panelist in the youth session at the commemoration ceremony held in Cape Town for the 10th anniversary of the HWPL 9·18 World Peace Summit.

Building upon this, the two organizations continued their cooperation, focusing on areas where gun violence is severe. They formed and operated the “Peace My City Committee” together, and jointly carried out a community clean-up campaign to mark the 11th anniversary commemoration of HWPL’s Declaration of World Peace, held on May 25, 2025.

Youth Dialogue on Violence in South Africa at the University of Johannesburg

The cooperation continued in 2026. At the Youth Peace Dialogue (Youth Dialogue on Violence), held at the University of Johannesburg in April, young people exchanged views on peace and community issues. On May 12, 2026, GFSA officially became an IPYG partner organization.

Reflecting on their journey with IPYG, Representative Dr. Stanley Maphosa shared that their collaboration has successfully connected gun-violence prevention with youth leadership. Together, they have created spaces for young people’s voices to be heard through university events, spread the message of peace via radio broadcasts and various community outreach activities, and recently visited South Korea to connect local activities with international peace efforts. Looking ahead, they are also preparing a joint march and art exhibition for young people to take an active role.

Stanley Maphosa, Representative of GFSA, who signed an MOU with the HWPL South Africa branch

Representative Dr. Maphosa shared this encouraging message with young people around the world:

“To young people around the world: you deserve to live, learn, and work without fear of violence. Your voice matters most right now. Reject the idea that carrying a gun earns respect or that violence resolves conflict. Use your voice, your creativity, and your ability to unite to protect life. Let us build solidarity across borders and make peace visible in our streets, our schools, and our daily choices. Protecting others and creating better opportunities for them: that is true leadership.”

HWPL Official Homepage

https://www.hwpl.kr/language/en/home-hwpl-_en/

                                                                                                                                  

[HWPL]

[HWPL] HWPL's Peace Songs Near the White House Echo Youths’ Vision for a World Without War

Chairman ManHee Lee is the head representative of the global peace organization HWPL (Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light), which is striving for the enactment and implementation of the international peace law 'Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW)'. The  DPCW is a legal instrument comprised of 10 articles and 38 clauses that can end wars and hostilities throughout the world. HWPL is also spreading a culture of peace and implementing peace education.

Chairman ManHee Lee experienced the cruelty and tragedy of war as a veteran of the Korean War. This is one of the reasons why he founded a global peace campaign as the head of HWPL. He has traveled the globe more than 35 times to meet and persuade politicians, legal experts, journalists, professors, peace activists, civil organization leaders, heads of tribes and others to unite them for the work of peace. The significant fruits borne out of his hard work are the World Alliance of Religions' Peace (WARP) Summit and HWPL Peace Committee. The DPCW was drafted and finalised by the HWPL Peace Committee.

How, you may wonder, do I know this? About 10 years ago, when I had just been discharged from military service, I came to know HWPL and Chairman ManHee Lee while researching the topic of civil conflicts to satisfy my curiosity in ongoing global issues. At that time, the island of Mindanao in the Philippines was suffering from a major civil conflict that lasted more than 40 years, and Chairman ManHee Lee and HWPL resolved this conflict through non-violent means.

Chairman Lee brought an end to the conflict in Mindanao by holding a peace talk between the warring Catholic and Islamic groups. Before the talk, HWPL and Chairman ManHee Lee held a Peace Walk to spread the culture of peace in Mindanao with the many locals who had gathered out of a desire for peace.

Chairman ManHee Lee's pressing appeal today is that humanity unites for sustainable peace in order to pass on the legacy of peace to future generations worldwide. He doesn't just talk peace, but has worked tirelessly for it through practical peace campaigns for over a decade.

I decided to become a supporter of HWPL and Chairman ManHee Lee's peace initiatives because I also desire a world of peace for all posterity.

Today I'd like to introduce an article regarding HWPL's peace campaign in the U.S. :)

Peace Songs Near the White House Echo Youths’ Vision for a World Without War

Young people across the United States are taking an active role in promoting peace and human rights through cultural exchange, education, and community engagement, according to a report by Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL).

One of the most notable efforts was the first Washington, D.C. Youth Peace Festival, held on May 30 at Franklin Park, located near the White House. Organized by HWPL and the Washington, D.C. branch of the International Youth Peace Group (IPYG), the event brought together approximately 400 participants, including youth leaders, local residents, and representatives of civic and cultural organizations.

The festival was conducted as part of the Youth Empowerment Peace Workshop (YEPW), an initiative designed to encourage young people to participate in peacebuilding efforts and develop leadership skills for creating positive social change. Organizers said the event sought to strengthen youth networks and foster a culture of peace through dialogue and artistic expression.

Participants experienced a wide range of cultural performances, including Latin American traditional dances, classical music, hip-hop performances, and youth-led artistic presentations. Various cultural groups showcased their heritage through music and dance, demonstrating how the arts can help bridge social and cultural divides. Interactive booths also introduced visitors to local peace initiatives and opportunities for community involvement.

Speakers at the festival emphasized the importance of youth participation in addressing global challenges. Human rights advocates and community leaders highlighted the need to protect human dignity, promote mutual understanding, and empower younger generations to become active contributors to society. They encouraged participants to move beyond passive observation and engage directly in efforts that support peace and social harmony.

The event also received recognition from Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, who expressed support for initiatives that promote youth leadership, community cooperation, and peaceful coexistence. Local organizations collaborated with organizers to help create a platform where young people could share ideas and build meaningful connections.

Meanwhile, on the West Coast, HWPL’s San Francisco branch hosted a Peace Workshop Festival in San Jose to commemorate Human Rights Day. The gathering brought together religious leaders, civic groups, young people, and local residents to discuss the relationship between human rights and lasting peace.

The event featured a variety of interactive activities, including peace-themed bracelet making, community art projects, and cultural exchange programs. Participants also engaged in discussions on practical ways individuals can contribute to peace within their communities and everyday lives.

One of the highlights was a youth theater performance portraying the devastating impact of war and the universal desire for peace. The presentation encouraged attendees to reflect on the consequences of conflict and the importance of collective efforts to prevent violence and promote understanding.

Organizers said both events demonstrated the powerful role young people can play in advancing peace through creativity, education, and grassroots action. Building on the enthusiasm generated by the festivals, IPYG plans to continue expanding partnerships with local organizations and hopes to establish the Washington, D.C. Youth Peace Festival as an annual event representing youth-driven peace culture in the nation’s capital.

The initiatives reflect a growing movement among young Americans who believe that dialogue, cooperation, and cultural understanding are essential foundations for a more peaceful future.

HWPL Official Homepage

https://www.hwpl.kr/language/en

                                                                                                                                 

[HWPL]

[HWPL] HWPL's Interfaith Peace Community Gathering in Korea

Chairman ManHee Lee is the head representative of the global peace organization HWPL (Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light), which is striving for the enactment and implementation of the international peace law 'Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW)'. The  DPCW is a legal instrument comprised of 10 articles and 38 clauses that can end wars and hostilities throughout the world. HWPL is also spreading a culture of peace and implementing peace education.

Chairman ManHee Lee experienced the cruelty and tragedy of war as a veteran of the Korean War. This is one of the reasons why he founded a global peace campaign as the head of HWPL. He has traveled the globe more than 35 times to meet and persuade politicians, legal experts, journalists, professors, peace activists, civil organization leaders, heads of tribes and others to unite them for the work of peace. The significant fruits borne out of his hard work are the World Alliance of Religions' Peace (WARP) Summit and HWPL Peace Committee. The DPCW was drafted and finalised by the HWPL Peace Committee.

How, you may wonder, do I know this? About 10 years ago, when I had just been discharged from military service, I came to know HWPL and Chairman ManHee Lee while researching the topic of civil conflicts to satisfy my curiosity in ongoing global issues. At that time, the island of Mindanao in the Philippines was suffering from a major civil conflict that lasted more than 40 years, and Chairman ManHee Lee and HWPL resolved this conflict through non-violent means.

Chairman Lee brought an end to the conflict in Mindanao by holding a peace talk between the warring Catholic and Islamic groups. Before the talk, HWPL and Chairman ManHee Lee held a Peace Walk to spread the culture of peace in Mindanao with the many locals who had gathered out of a desire for peace.

Chairman ManHee Lee's pressing appeal today is that humanity unites for sustainable peace in order to pass on the legacy of peace to future generations worldwide. He doesn't just talk peace, but has worked tirelessly for it through practical peace campaigns for over a decade.

I decided to become a supporter of HWPL and Chairman ManHee Lee's peace initiatives because I also desire a world of peace for all posterity.

Today I'd like to introduce an article regarding HWPL's Interfaith Peace Community Gathering in Korea :)

Different Faiths, One Peace: More Than 250 Gather for Interfaith Harmony

More than 250 participants from diverse religious backgrounds gathered in Seoul for an interfaith event promoting peace, mutual respect, and cooperation among different faith communities.

The Interfaith Peace Community Gathering (Religious Peace Academy) was held on November 1 at Eunpyeong Family Church in Seoul under the theme, “We Are Different, but the Path to Peace Is One.” Organized jointly by Eunpyeong Family Church and HWPL Global Branch 07, the event brought together representatives from the Family Federation, Buddhism, indigenous Korean faiths, Islam, and Christianity.

A central feature of the gathering was a series of presentations exploring how different religious traditions understand and practice peace. Despite differences in doctrine and practice, speakers highlighted common values such as harmony, compassion, coexistence, justice, and love.

Rev. Seong Hwan-deuk of Eunpyeong Family Church emphasized harmony, describing peace as a process of respecting diversity while working toward shared goals. He noted that social unity does not require uniformity, but rather the ability to coexist while recognizing each person’s unique identity and beliefs.

Representing Buddhism, Ven. Jeong-o spoke about compassion, explaining that empathy, kindness, and concern for others form the foundation of peaceful communities. He stressed the importance of caring for neighbors and supporting those in need.

Lee Jong-chun, head of the indigenous religion Taebaek Jingyo, focused on coexistence and encouraged religious groups to cooperate while preserving their distinct traditions. He called for practical collaboration that extends beyond dialogue into meaningful peace-building efforts.

Kim Won-taek, imam and chairman of the Korean Muslim Ummah Mission Committee, discussed justice as a key element of peace. He emphasized fairness, respect for human dignity, and opposition to discrimination based on religion or belief.

Speaking from a Christian perspective, Jeong Jae-bok of Shincheonji Church of Jesus highlighted love, encouraging people of different faiths to express their beliefs through service, charity, and care for others.

Organizers said the event provided a valuable opportunity for participants to learn about different religious perspectives while discovering shared values. Rather than focusing on theological differences, speakers emphasized the common goal of building a peaceful society through understanding and cooperation.

The program also featured cultural performances, including traditional Korean music and dance, as well as vocal performances that encouraged interaction among attendees.

Participants concluded that while religions may differ in teachings and traditions, they share a commitment to promoting peace, respect, and coexistence. Organizers expressed hope that continued interfaith dialogue and cooperation would help reduce prejudice, strengthen community ties, and contribute to lasting peace.

HWPL Official Homepage

https://www.hwpl.kr/language/en

                                                                                                                                

[HWPL]

[HWPL] HWPL's Global Peace NGO Award at Sri Lanka Peace Conference

Chairman ManHee Lee is the head representative of the global peace organization HWPL (Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light), which is striving for the enactment and implementation of the international peace law 'Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW)'. The  DPCW is a legal instrument comprised of 10 articles and 38 clauses that can end wars and hostilities throughout the world. HWPL is also spreading a culture of peace and implementing peace education.

Chairman ManHee Lee experienced the cruelty and tragedy of war as a veteran of the Korean War. This is one of the reasons why he founded a global peace campaign as the head of HWPL. He has traveled the globe more than 35 times to meet and persuade politicians, legal experts, journalists, professors, peace activists, civil organization leaders, heads of tribes and others to unite them for the work of peace. The significant fruits borne out of his hard work are the World Alliance of Religions' Peace (WARP) Summit and HWPL Peace Committee. The DPCW was drafted and finalised by the HWPL Peace Committee.

How, you may wonder, do I know this? About 10 years ago, when I had just been discharged from military service, I came to know HWPL and Chairman ManHee Lee while researching the topic of civil conflicts to satisfy my curiosity in ongoing global issues. At that time, the island of Mindanao in the Philippines was suffering from a major civil conflict that lasted more than 40 years, and Chairman ManHee Lee and HWPL resolved this conflict through non-violent means.

Chairman Lee brought an end to the conflict in Mindanao by holding a peace talk between the warring Catholic and Islamic groups. Before the talk, HWPL and Chairman ManHee Lee held a Peace Walk to spread the culture of peace in Mindanao with the many locals who had gathered out of a desire for peace.

Chairman ManHee Lee's pressing appeal today is that humanity unites for sustainable peace in order to pass on the legacy of peace to future generations worldwide. He doesn't just talk peace, but has worked tirelessly for it through practical peace campaigns for over a decade.

I decided to become a supporter of HWPL and Chairman ManHee Lee's peace initiatives because I also desire a world of peace for all posterity.

Today I'd like to introduce an article regarding HWPL's Global Peace NGO Award at Sri Lanka Peace Conference :)

[HWPL] HWPL's Global Peace NGO Award at Sri Lanka Peace Conference

Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), an international peace NGO, received the Global Peace NGO Award at an event hosted by the International Peace Mission Conference (IPMC) at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) in Colombo. The ceremony was held in observance of the International Day of Peace and drew more than 300 participants, including religious leaders, diplomats, academics, political figures, and peace activists.

According to organizers, the award recognizes HWPL’s contributions to global peace, international cooperation, and the promotion of a culture of peace.

During the same event, HWPL Chairman Man Hee Lee was awarded the honorary lifetime title “Sama Sri,” meaning “Peace Advocate.” He was also named among the Top 100 recipients of IPMC’s Global Peace Awards 2026 and received the organization’s International Global Award. Former Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena presented the Sama Sri title, while Chanaka Suranga, chief branch manager of HWPL Sri Lanka, accepted the recognition on Lee’s behalf.

HWPL has continued to expand its peace and volunteer activities in Sri Lanka. In August 2025, volunteers carried out a street-cleaning campaign in Kandy following the Kandy Esala Perahera, one of the country’s major Buddhist festivals. On February 4, 2026, HWPL and the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG) organized tree-planting events in Moratuwa, Minipe-Hasalaka, and Jaffna to mark Sri Lanka’s Independence Day, attracting more than 350 participants, including local residents, youth, and public officials.

The conference was attended by representatives from diplomatic, religious, educational, and government sectors, as well as members of civil society, university students, and peace organizations.

HWPL said it remains committed to promoting peace through education, interfaith dialogue, and cooperation with youth and local communities, supporting efforts to foster mutual understanding and social harmony worldwide.

HWPL Official Homepage

https://www.hwpl.kr/language/en

                                                                                                                               

[HWPL]

[HWPL] HWPL's Global Peace Leadership Training Online

Chairman ManHee Lee is the head representative of the global peace organization HWPL (Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light), which is striving for the enactment and implementation of the international peace law 'Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW)'. The  DPCW is a legal instrument comprised of 10 articles and 38 clauses that can end wars and hostilities throughout the world. HWPL is also spreading a culture of peace and implementing peace education.

Chairman ManHee Lee experienced the cruelty and tragedy of war as a veteran of the Korean War. This is one of the reasons why he founded a global peace campaign as the head of HWPL. He has traveled the globe more than 35 times to meet and persuade politicians, legal experts, journalists, professors, peace activists, civil organization leaders, heads of tribes and others to unite them for the work of peace. The significant fruits borne out of his hard work are the World Alliance of Religions' Peace (WARP) Summit and HWPL Peace Committee. The DPCW was drafted and finalised by the HWPL Peace Committee.

How, you may wonder, do I know this? About 10 years ago, when I had just been discharged from military service, I came to know HWPL and Chairman ManHee Lee while researching the topic of civil conflicts to satisfy my curiosity in ongoing global issues. At that time, the island of Mindanao in the Philippines was suffering from a major civil conflict that lasted more than 40 years, and Chairman ManHee Lee and HWPL resolved this conflict through non-violent means.

Chairman Lee brought an end to the conflict in Mindanao by holding a peace talk between the warring Catholic and Islamic groups. Before the talk, HWPL and Chairman ManHee Lee held a Peace Walk to spread the culture of peace in Mindanao with the many locals who had gathered out of a desire for peace.

Chairman ManHee Lee's pressing appeal today is that humanity unites for sustainable peace in order to pass on the legacy of peace to future generations worldwide. He doesn't just talk peace, but has worked tirelessly for it through practical peace campaigns for over a decade.

I decided to become a supporter of HWPL and Chairman ManHee Lee's peace initiatives because I also desire a world of peace for all posterity.

Today I'd like to introduce an article regarding HWPL's Global Peace Leadership Training Online :)

HWPL Concludes Global Peace Leadership Training, Inspiring Future Peace Educators

International peace NGO HWPL has successfully concluded the third and final session of its online Global Peace Leadership Training, bringing together participants from Asia, Africa, and North America to strengthen peacebuilding leadership and promote a culture of understanding and cooperation.

The three-part training program was conducted on October 3, 10, and 17, attracting around 40 participants in each session from India, Sri Lanka, The Gambia, Liberia, and the United States. Attendees included educators, youth leaders, and members of religious communities who shared a common commitment to advancing peace within their respective societies.

Throughout the program, speakers emphasized the importance of personal responsibility, compassion, and active engagement in peacebuilding. Participants reflected on the need to confront injustice, demonstrate moral courage, and leave a legacy of peace for future generations. The training also highlighted values such as gratitude, consideration for others, sacrifice, and forgiveness as essential foundations for harmonious communities.

The curriculum introduced participants to HWPL’s Peace Education framework. Early sessions focused on character-building lessons, including appreciation for kindness, concern for others’ well-being, selfless service, and reconciliation. The final session expanded on these themes by exploring respect for elders, preservation of cultural heritage, and adherence to laws that support peaceful societies. Interactive discussions followed each session, allowing attendees to exchange ideas and practical experiences related to peace education.

Participants expressed positive feedback, noting that the training offered valuable guidance and strengthened their existing peace initiatives. Several attendees indicated plans to apply the lessons within their organizations and communities to promote positive social change.

According to organizers, additional make-up sessions will be offered, and participants who complete the required standards may be appointed as HWPL Peace Educators. The organization stated that it will continue promoting peace through education, interfaith dialogue, and cooperation with youth and civil society groups around the world.

HWPL Official Homepage

https://www.hwpl.kr/language/en