Club Korea Seeks People’s Happiness
By Kim Se-jeong
Staff Reporter
Kim Hak-su, who leads a non-governmental organization, has pledged to roll up his sleeves to secure basic rights for human beings.
Kim, former executive secretary of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (2000-2007), was appointed as chairman of the 10021 Club Korea Tuesday.
In his inaugural speech at the Lexington Hotel in Yeouido, he said, ``I am glad to be part again in activity that puts efforts toward enhancing the basic rights of human beings and the level of happiness among individuals."
``As a leader of the club and together with other members, I will strive to increase awareness of basic rights and values among the public,'' he said.
Kim worked as a prominent economist in both the government and private sectors. He was an economist with the Bank of Korea, secretary to the minister of commerce and industry and an executive director of Daewoo Corp. Kim took up his position in the United Nations in 1981.
The club was recently given official recognition by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. President Lee Myung-bak was a member when he served as Seoul mayor.
It was established in 2002 by Rhee Jhoon, currently chairman of the 10021 Club International, as a private group. It became a non-governmental organization last December committed to public service and social work.
Chairman Kim has an aspiring goal: to turn the club into something like the Rotary Club or Lions Club.
The club, which consists of influential individuals in Korean society has an infinite dream: to nurture and grow like other organizations with global influence.
``This is the first international NGO that has headquarters in Korea. We are in pursuit of the same spirit that the Rotary Club or Lions Club carry.'' Kim said. ``We will strive to bring up young global leaders and help the poor.''
Both the Rotary and Lions Clubs are social service organizations recognized internationally with more than 70,000 regional clubs and more than two million members.
Among those present at the inaugural ceremony was a special guest from Taiwan. He was a special envoy from Chen Shui-bian, president of Taiwan, who delivered Chen's congratulatory message to the occasion.
In the message, President Chen said, ``I express my deep respect for those who are at the beginning line of their efforts to pursue universal values like the peace, fundamental rights and happiness of humanity.''
The club plans to organize conferences and forums starting next month, Kim said.