PHOTOS: Salvation Army starts year-end charity campaign

The Salvation Army Korea holds an event to mark the start of its fundraising season at Gwanghwamun Square, Nov. 28, 2025. Yonhap
SEOUL, November 28 (AJP) - The iconic sound of charity bells has returned to the streets of South Korea, but this year, the tradition comes with a modern upgrade.

The Salvation Army Korea signaled the start of its fundraising season on Nov. 28 at Gwanghwamun Square. The launch event featured a ceremonial bell-ringing attended by Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon and Salvation Army Commander Kim Byung-yoon.

Now in its 97th year, the year-end Red Kettle campaign will operate at approximately 300 locations across the country. Adapting to a cashless society, the organization has introduced an NFC-based "One-Tag Smart Donation" system this year, allowing passersby to make donations instantly via smartphone.
 The Salvation Army Korea holds an event to mark the start of its fundraising season at Gwanghwamun Square, Nov. 28, 2025. Yonhap The Salvation Army Korea holds an event to mark the start of its fundraising season at Gwanghwamun Square, Nov. 28, 2025. Yonhap The Salvation Army Korea holds an event to mark the start of its fundraising season at Gwanghwamun Square, Nov. 28, 2025. Yonhap The Salvation Army Korea holds an event to mark the start of its fundraising season at Gwanghwamun Square, Nov. 28, 2025. Yonhap
Cho Bo-hee 부장 jobo@ajupress.com