[MAP Volunteer Introduction] Lee Seo-yeon (Teaching Assistant, Dream School)

“Can a person be a miracle to another person?” This is the question that the recently ended KBS drama (<동백꽃 필 무렵>) posed to its viewers. I have not seen the drama, so I do not know it well, but I am told the writer intended to convey the answer “yes.” Youngah also used this phrase at the 14 December event <2019 GO MAP GO: Thank You> (<2019 GO MAP GO 고맙고>) when she spoke about MAP activists. Jean-Paul Sartre, a writer and thinker, wrote in his novel that “hell is other people,” and sometimes that does feel true, yet it seems that the reason we can nevertheless have some hope is also “people.” In that sense, every (volunteer) activist of MAP has been a “miracle” for MAP.

The second (volunteer) activist we introduce is Seo-yeon Lee, who worked as a MAP volunteer from August 2016 to December 2016.

Q. Hello. Please introduce yourself briefly.

A. Hello. I am a university student, and I am Seo-yeon Lee, who worked as a volunteer at MAP in 2016.

Q. What led you to start volunteering at MAP?

A. I applied through a linked program hosted by the human rights center at my university. In the process of choosing an organization to work with, I first learned about MAP, and its work providing support in various areas such as medical care, education and law for migrants in Korea seemed valuable and interesting. Because MAP was (at the time I applied) a newly established organization, I thought I might be able to offer my opinions and to experience substantive work rather than administrative work. I also thought I could use both education, which I am studying, and French, so I applied.

Q. What activities and work did you do at MAP?

A. I worked as a teaching assistant in the “Seongnam Asia Peace Leader Dream School” program. Together with other activists, I helped students with their group activities and guided their campaign planning.

Q. What did you like about your time at MAP?

A. Through Dream School I learned what middle and high school students think about human rights and peace. Students attended classes with a much more serious and diligent attitude than I had expected, and took an active part in group activities. I was glad to see the children’s pure and warm hearts.

Q. Then, what was disappointing?

A. Because it was the first time Dream School was held, I think there were some disappointing points in the composition and operation of the class program. But if it is held again, it could get better, could it not!

Q. After finishing your time at MAP, what “small change” happened in you?

A. Honestly, I knew nothing about refugee issues, but thanks to my work with MAP I became interested in refugee issues in Korea and abroad. My view of the world also widened a little, and it was a great help in deciding my career path.

Q. Finally, please tell us anything you wish for MAP or want to say.

A. I miss the MAP teachers, who always welcomed me warmly even though I was lacking! To Youngah, Juyeon, and all the MAP activists who quietly carry out meaningful work, I will always cheer you on! Someday I want to become a better person and work at MAP again.