By Leah Garlock | Executive Director
What a late-night boat ride taught us about rest, growth, and letting go...
Last summer, KKOOM ran back-to-back camps. It was a wonderful opportunity for the students we work with, but in full transparency, it was no easy feat.
The first week, we held a co-ed sports camp in Seoul. Between the summer heat and a packed schedule with countless moving pieces, we had to stay flexible and adapt to everyone's needs in real time.
A Different Kind of Refreshing
Coming into our Busan Wellness Camp for our Girls' Empowerment and Mentorship (GEM) Program felt refreshing, both literally and figuratively. The days were still full, but this time we were by the ocean. Just the opportunity to get into the water seemed to lift everyone's mood.
For many of the students we work with, traveling to cities outside their children's homes is nearly impossible given strict safety guidelines and packed daily schedules. Summer is peak vacation season, and it's one of the few times these students, who are also busy with school, after-school programs, and tutoring, can simply rest, recover, and play.
Camping trips to the mountains and lakes are some of the most cherished childhood memories many of us carry. Nothing fancy, just time outdoors, but it only feels natural that swimming and summer should go hand-in-hand. It's something we hope every child gets to experience.
Fireworks, Waves, and the Quiet Moments That Changed Everything
Last year, one of the most memorable moments of camp was also one of the simplest: a late-night yacht ride, complete with fireworks and K-pop music. We watched the girls' initial nervousness about their first boat ride wash away as they leaned into the bounce of the waves. Their squeals rang out as the water lapped against the boat and their first fireworks show lit up the night sky above them. It was another magical moment we've had the privilege of witnessing with the students we work with.
There was an indescribable lightness to it. For a camp built around mindfulness, movement, and healthy living, this moment felt like pure release. The energy lifted, much like the heat of the day had. In that moment, we could all just breathe, without the weight of tomorrow, school, or life pressing in.
It was, in many ways, exactly what this camp set out to do.
Building on What Works
This summer, as we planned our programming, we wanted to be more focused and intentional. Instead of running two separate camps, we consolidated into one, and with the help of our volunteer team and KKOOM Board, we've made thoughtful improvements along the way. What isn't broken, we don't fix. Instead, we're adapting the experience for a new group of girls this summer, many of whom have never been to Busan before and are simply excited to see the sea.
Beyond what our girls will learn about the sea, its creatures, and themselves, we hope they'll also learn, much like water does, to go with the flow. Camp runs four full days, each built around its own theme.
Four Days, Four Themes
Day 1: Make Waves
Discover your creative voice and express it through hands-on making and doing.
Day 2: Dive In
Build courage, face challenges head-on, and take bold steps outside your comfort zone.
Day 3: Go with the Flow
Find balance in body and mind through movement and mindfulness.
Day 4: Rise Together
Build teamwork and communication skills, and learn the power of lifting each other up.
As one of our favorite K-pop groups, BTS, likes to remind us, the “best moment is yet to come.”
Help Us Give These Girls Another Summer of Firsts
For these students, camp is more than a getaway. It's a space to build confidence, rest and unwind, and feel truly supported. Our goal this year is to raise $5,000 and give these girls a summer they'll never forget.
Your gift helps us provide everything campers need for an unforgettable experience, from items like workbooks and swim gear, to experiences like group activities, transportation, and lodging. We're especially excited to give the girls their very own swimsuits, something none of them currently own.
Want to be part of the journey? Follow along with camp prep and behind-the-scenes moments on Instagram or Facebook, or sign up for our newsletter on our website.
Excited to have you on board!
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