Global Women's Peace Network USA: Women's Leadership in Reconciliation and Peacemaking "The Case of North and South Korea(WFWP USA & WFWP Korea)

Welcoming Remarks by Dr. Julia H. Moon, President of WFWP International

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The Global Women’s Peace Network in the USA held its first forum in collaboration with WFWP Korea, as part of the Women’s Leadership in Reconciliation and Peacemaking webinar series. The session, marking 71 years since the outbreak of the Korean War, addressed “The Case of North and South Korea,” focusing on a peaceful reunification. The program took place on June 21, 2021, with panelists from both South Korea and USA.

The program was officially inaugurated with welcoming remarks by Mrs. Julia H. Moon, President of WFWP International, who shared the Founders’ vision and teachings in pursuit of peace. “WFWP International, through its various projects, including GWPN, utilizes spiritual insights that elevate the pursuit of peace in a very effective way.”

First Lady Yumi Hogan of the State of Maryland, sent a congratulatory letter to commend the gathering. “As a daughter of Korea, my heart is heavy for all the victims and families impacted by the Korean war. As we remember the lives that were lost and altered during this conflict, it is our responsibility to create a safer tomorrow for future generations. I applaud all of the great female leaders and peacemakers gathered here today.”

Panelists shared various nonpolitical approaches to assist the reunification process on the Korean peninsula. Joining from South Korea, Dr. Yang-Ho Hong, North Korea Social Research Center President at the Database Center for North Korean Human Rights, highlighted women’s unique tendencies toward non-violence, and urged women to get more involved in cultural exchanges. Amanda Mortwedt Oh from the US, a human rights attorney at The Committee for Human Rights in North Korea, advised to start by agreeing upon human rights standards, and implementing assessments to increase awareness of the issues.

Finally, panelist Rev. Belina Wimbish-Haile, Founder and CEO of Belina Ministries Int’l and BeYOUtyful Solutions, emphasized that instead of imposing outside ideas and solutions, it is important to lift up the voices of the Korean women and support their mission and needs.

Sharing a special message on her time as WFWP International President, Dr. Lan Young Moon described her experience visiting North Korea 19 times, and initiating the ‘1% Love Share Project’ to care for North Korean women and children. Participants were invited to contribute to the Love Share project, currently supporting two after school programs for North Korean defectors.

Closing the session, moderator Angelika Selle, GWPN USA Chair and WFWP USA President, shared about the eloquent, moving book, “Mother of Peace: And God Shall Wipe Away All Tears from Their Eyes.” This memoir tells the true story of WFWP Co-Founder Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, from escaping North Korea during the Korean War, stepping into her divine calling, and the incredible achievements she and her late husband have made for peace and reconciliation worldwide.