2020 Horticulture Therapy

This year, Saejowi launched a new program for mental health through horticulture therapy. Every Thursday, from June to August, North Korean defectors gathered at the Saejowi headquarters to listen to a lecture from a horticulture professional, then participated in the hands-on experience of planting their own herbs, arranging flower bouquets, making oil scent rollers, and designing nameplates with dried flowers. This program was one of Saejowi's most popular programs to date, and many defectors agreed that it had been very enjoyable, especially as most of them took their creative projects home with them afterwards. By taking care of plants tenderly, North Korean defectors had the opportunity to reflect on the importance of caretaking, including self-care, and how positive words and resilience can impact our lives for the better.