I truly considered quitting. However, when my friends said, ‘Let’s go all the way,’ I also felt like joining them.
Yun So-jin (using a pseudonym, second-year middle school student), 15 years old, smiled while talking after finishing a 60km trek along the Haeparang Trail in Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province. Yun often went to hospitals because of recurring febrile seizures as a child. Nevertheless, the previously weak child became the main character who finished the national hike with 120 middle school students across the country.
From June 3 to June 6, 2026, 120 middle school students joined the ‘8th World Vision Dreaming Children National Trek: Dream High!’ taking place in Samcheok, Donghae, Gangneung, and Yangyang in Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, as well as Yeouido Park in Seoul. Over the course of four days and three nights, participants covered a total distance of 60km along the Haeparang Trail. Launched in 2014, this program has now completed its eighth edition this year, excluding the years when it was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and this was its last trek.
◇4-Day Trek Along the East Coast Haeparang Trail
For Yun, this challenge was more than just a walking event. Having faced economic difficulties and health problems during her childhood, she strengthened her aspiration to become a nursing officer through World Vision’s ‘Dreaming Children’ program. She participated in the national trek to assess her own capabilities.
The procession was not simple. Her feet were numb with anxiety as she moved across the rocking ship’s deck, and she wanted to quit because of the heat and discomfort. However, Yun kept going.
Myeongju Seong (alias, 15 years old) also took part in this journey. Disinterested in physical activity and lacking self-assurance, Myeongju initially thought, “I won’t be able to do it.” Nevertheless, she began exercising every day and ultimately managed to finish the 60km.
I wanted to go home yesterday because it was really hard, but as I continued walking, I somehow made it to the end,” Myeongju said. “I believe this will stay as a positive memory.
The significance of the journey went beyond just walking. The young people participated in community projects, exchanging their ideas. Through the ‘Global 6K’ night walk initiative—a 6-kilometer stroll—they gained an indirect understanding of the challenges encountered by children in underdeveloped regions who have to cover great distances to get water. They also discovered that even tough journeys can be accomplished as a group.
At the closing ceremony, Jeon Yeong-eun (using a pseudonym, second-year middle school student), who spoke on behalf of participants to share insights, stated, “I discovered that even if the goal appears far away, making steady efforts eventually leads to reaching it. I came to understand the significance of the feeling of accomplishment after overcoming challenges.”
◇A 630km trip taken by 1,533 individuals
Starting in 2014, the national journey has included a total of 1,533 young people, who collectively covered 630 kilometers. For those taking part, it was more than just a long hike; it was an opportunity to push beyond their personal boundaries.
The event this year carried unique significance as it signified the last journey of the program, which had been ongoing for eight years. The initiative ended after providing numerous teenagers with opportunities for challenge and success. A shared feeling among the participants was the conviction, “I can do it.”
Yun, who was accustomed to hospitals, managed to complete 60km. Myeongju, who had previously said, “I won’t be able to do it,” also reached her goal without surrendering. The national hike turned into an opportunity for the children to realize their own capabilities.
Although the eight-year journey has come to an end, the children now face new beginnings as they pursue their individual aspirations. After completing the national journey, World Vision intends to assist young people in overcoming challenges and fostering growth through a new initiative called ‘Hero Mind,’ set to launch in 2027, aligning with evolving youth development needs and circumstances.
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