The Cheonan Taejosan Youth Center has officially commenced its 4-day, 5-night international youth eco-exchange program titled "Eco Bridge in Singapore," running from September 15 to 19. Designed to foster global environmental awareness and cross-cultural understanding, the initiative brings together 10 local youths aged 15 to 19 to explore overseas ecological sites and engage directly with their international peers.

Singapore was chosen as the destination due to its world-renowned reputation as a "City in a Garden" and its pioneering urban sustainability models. Throughout the program, participants investigate critical ecological zones, including local wildlife habitats, protected nature reserves, and vital mangrove ecosystems. Mangroves play an indispensable role in global climate action by acting as powerful carbon sinks—capturing and storing vast amounts of blue carbon—while also protecting coastal communities from erosion and severe weather events. By observing these environments firsthand, the Korean youths gain practical insights into how densely populated modern cities can successfully integrate ecological preservation with sustainable urban planning.

A core highlight of the itinerary takes place on September 17, when the delegation visits Outward Bound Singapore (OBS). At OBS, participants join local youths in collaborative outdoor adventure activities and structured cultural exchange sessions. These joint team-building exercises are structured to break down cultural barriers, enhance leadership skills, and encourage deep dialogues about shared environmental responsibilities facing the younger generation globally.

Seo Jae-min, Director of the Cheonan Taejosan Youth Center, emphasized the profound vision behind the program, stating, "We hope this serves as a meaningful stepping stone for our youths to communicate with the wider world through the universal medium of the environment, ultimately growing into capable global citizens." Through comprehensive preparatory education, domestic sharing sessions, and this immersive international expedition, the program equips future leaders with the knowledge and global networks necessary to champion ecological sustainability in their home communities and beyond.

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