(C) Gangjin News

GANGJIN — In the scenic coastal town of Gangjin, a local performance group is proving that music can do more than just entertain—it can heal a community. For three consecutive years, the Cheongjagol Art Troupe has been transforming the Mangho Port area into a stage for charity, using their weekly busking performances to support the marginalized and foster regional pride.

Music with a Mission
Led by President Kim In-ho and consisting of 15 dedicated local residents, the Cheongjagol Art Troupe is named after the region’s famous "Cheongja" (celadon) porcelain. Their mission is simple yet profound: to share the joy of music while raising funds for those in need.

The troupe’s dedication was on full display on December 17, when they visited the Gangjin Nursing Home. Led by Janggu (traditional drum) Director Yoon Yang-hee, the group performed festive renditions of classic songs like "Brier Rose" for a senior citizens' birthday celebration. This visit is part of a larger commitment where the troupe provides monthly performances at various elderly care facilities, offering song, instrumental music, and companionship to the lonely.

The Mangho Port Tradition
The group’s most visible contribution takes place every weekend from May through mid-November at the entrance of the Gaudo Suspension Bridge at Mangho Port. Despite the physical toll of performing in the biting winds of spring or the scorching heat of summer, the members remain steadfast.

To keep the initiative running without overhead costs, members pack their own lunches and make personal sacrifices—closing their shops for the day, finishing farm work at dawn, or hiring part-time workers to cover their shifts. From 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, the port is filled with the sounds of singing, magic shows, and traditional instruments, creating a vibrant atmosphere for tourists.

Turning Melodies into Miracles
The impact of their busking is measured not just in applause, but in tangible aid. This year, the troupe collected 4 million KRW (approx. $3,000 USD) from small donations—ranging from 1,000 to 10,000 KRW—dropped into their charity box by appreciative tourists.

True to their word, the troupe distributed the funds where they were needed most:

2 million KRW was used to purchase athletic equipment for young local athletes, presented during the "Gangjin Athletes' Night."
1 million KRW was donated to the Gangjin County Office to support underprivileged families and households headed by children.
1 million KRW was contributed to the Welfare for the Disabled in Gangjin.
This follows a successful campaign last year, where the group donated 3 million KRW to similar local causes.

Promoting the "Half-Price Gangjin" Spirit
Beyond charity, the troupe serves as unofficial ambassadors for the region. Between sets, they educate tourists about Gangjin’s cultural landmarks, such as the Yeongrang Birthplace and the "Half-Price Gangjin Travel" initiative, helping to boost the local economy.

"Our members find immense joy in performing," said President Kim In-ho. "It is physically demanding, but seeing the smiles on the faces of the elderly and knowing we are helping our neighbors gives us the strength to keep going. We look forward to the Gaudo busking every week and will continue to be a warm companion for our community."