On August 9, Gyeonggi Province Governor Dong Yeon Kim welcomed and encouraged World Scout Jamboree participants from Saemangeum at the Gyeonggi Firefighting Academy and at the Gyeonggi Arts Center where a performance program was held. The participants enjoyed the programs organized by Gyeonggi Province, including fire drills and traditional performances, with bright visages and no signs of fatigue.

Governor Kim visited the Gyeonggi Firefighting Academy in Chaein-gu, Yongin City, to inspect the facilities and watch the participants practice firefighting.

In the indoor rescue training center, the participants experienced firefighting, including waterproofing, wearing breathing apparatus, and escaping from a maze. Additionally, and in a confined and smoke-filled training space, they experienced rescue activities, including horizontal crossing and rope rappelling. The participants enthusiastically took part in this exceptional training opportunity, and were simultaneously earnest and happy.

Governor Kim told the participants, “On behalf of 14 million Gyeonggi residents, I welcome you. I am relieved and happy to see you all here safely,” adding, “I believe this is an experience in the spirit of scouting. I hope you have a safe and fun time in Gyeonggi Province.”

“The beds are good, the showers are clean, and the food is delicious. The experience is fun,” participants said.

Onny Jalink, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Korea, said, “The response to the Gyeonggi Province program was very good. Thank you for your hospitality.”

Governor Kim then visited and encouraged participants at the Gyeonggi Arts Center, where another group of Jamboree participants were watching a performance.

The participants experienced traditional Korean works – including Gyeonggi folk songs such as “Ariari” and Korean orchestral music such as “Sanyuhwa” and “Shinbatnori” – performed by the Gyeonggi Sinawi Orchestra. The participants couldn’t conceal their delight upon hearing the unfamiliar tunes and applauded enthusiastically at the end of each song.

Governor Kim said, “Just like today’s performance, bad things in life can take unexpected turns and become wonderful opportunities… Gyeonggi Province welcomes you with open arms and supports you in your endeavors.”

Gyeonggi Province plans to provide various cultural experience programs through to August 12 in cooperation with local communities so that the participating scouts can experience vibrant and enjoyable Korean culture. Of particular note, Gyeonggi Province will provide Dodamso (the former Gyeonggi gubernatorial residence), a communication space for Gyeonggi residents, as a venue for a multicultural choir to perform for the scouts on August 10.