LG is supporting the activities of the Kangnyu Choir, composed of descendants of Ethiopian veterans who served in the Korean War. The initiative goes beyond a one-time donation, providing dedicated practice space and equipment, as well as sponsoring performances in Korea to connect the legacy of the participating nations to future generations.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Veterans Affairs and the Warm Day Foundation, LG announced plans to establish a dedicated practice room for the Kangnyu Choir in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The practice room will be located within the veterans' hall built by the Ministry of Veterans Affairs in 2006. It will be equipped with soundproofing and acoustic facilities, along with necessary equipment such as laptops, speakers, and projectors for practice.
Founded in 2018, the Kangnyu Choir has lacked a dedicated space, often having to find locations for rehearsals or practicing outdoors when unable to secure a venue. They have also faced shortages of basic equipment for playing audio and accompaniment.
On July 23, LG invited the choir members, who were visiting Korea, to the LG Science Park in Magok, Seoul. Each member received a portable speaker from LG Electronics.
The Kangnyu Choir is primarily composed of the third generation of veterans from the Kangnyu Unit. They perform Korean songs and traditional music at Ethiopian government events, promoting the historical ties between the two countries.
Ethiopia is the only African nation to have deployed ground troops during the Korean War. The Kangnyu Unit, made up of imperial guards, fought on the central front, resulting in 122 fatalities and 536 injuries.
Combining the casualties from the Kangnyu Unit, the total number of lives lost or affected by the deployment is significant.
The choir visited Korea last month, performing at events commemorating the 76th anniversary of the Korean War. Their 36-day visit will conclude with a ceremony on July 27 marking the day of the United Nations forces' participation. LG fully supported their travel and accommodation expenses.
Additionally, LG operates vocational training programs in Ethiopia. Since 2014, the 'LG-KOICA Hope Vocational Training School' has provided local youth with information technology education and internship opportunities for outstanding graduates.
The Ministry of Veterans Affairs presented LG with a plaque of appreciation for its contributions to international veterans' activities, including the operation of the vocational training school and support for the Kangnyu Choir.
An LG representative stated, "We will continue to support the descendants of veterans so they can achieve economic independence and realize their cultural potential and dreams."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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