Our History

Over two decades of humanitarian service and sustainable community development worldwide

Founded in 2003 in Korea, Good People International began with a simple yet powerful vision: to create a world where every person can live with dignity and hope. What started as a grassroots movement has grown into a global humanitarian network operating in 20 countries with 32 field offices, touching the lives of over 150,000 people annually.

Our journey reflects not just organizational growth, but a deepening commitment to sustainable, community-driven development that addresses both physical and emotional needs.

Our Journey Through the Years

2003

The Beginning

Good People International founded in Korea with a mission to support vulnerable communities through holistic humanitarian programs. Our founders recognized that true development requires addressing not just physical needs, but also emotional and psychological well-being.

  • Established first community support center in Seoul
  • Launched food assistance and counseling programs
  • Built foundation of compassionate, sustainable aid
2005
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2008

Expanding Reach

First international programs launched in Asia, focusing on education and healthcare. Good People began building partnerships with local communities and governments to create sustainable, locally-led development.

  • Opened field offices in Nepal and Myanmar
  • Established scholarship programs for vulnerable children
  • Launched community health worker training programs
  • Developed holistic support model combining physical and emotional care
2010
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2012

Global Recognition

Achieved UN Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), recognizing our contribution to international humanitarian work. This milestone opened doors for greater collaboration and advocacy.

  • Expanded to 10 countries across Asia and Africa
  • Launched WASH (water, sanitation, hygiene) programs
  • Established emergency response capabilities
  • Developed trauma-informed care approach
2015

Nepal Earthquake Response

Major humanitarian response following the devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake in Nepal. Good People provided emergency relief and led long-term reconstruction efforts, rebuilding homes and schools with earthquake-resistant design.

  • Provided emergency relief to 25,000+ people
  • Rebuilt 350 earthquake-resistant homes
  • Reconstructed 18 schools and health posts
  • Offered trauma counseling and psychological support
2018

Good People International USA Established

Registered as 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Virginia, USA to expand American operations, fundraising, and advocacy. The USA office became a vital hub for international program coordination and partnership development.

  • Established headquarters in McLean, Virginia
  • Obtained EIN: 88-3600729
  • Launched American donor engagement programs
  • Strengthened advocacy and awareness campaigns
2020
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2022

COVID-19 Response & Resilience

Adapted programs to pandemic challenges while maintaining continuous support to vulnerable communities. Pivoted to remote education, telemedicine, and emergency food/health assistance.

  • Distributed PPE and hygiene supplies to 50,000+ families
  • Launched online education platforms for remote learning
  • Provided mental health support during isolation
  • Strengthened community health systems
2023
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2026

20+ Years of Impact

Celebrating two decades of sustainable change while expanding our global footprint. Today, Good People operates in 20 countries with 32 field offices, impacting 150,000+ lives annually through education, healthcare, WASH, community development, and emergency relief.

  • 80+ active projects across 4 continents
  • 200+ partner organizations worldwide
  • Strengthened focus on climate resilience and sustainability
  • Deepened commitment to community empowerment and self-reliance

Key Milestones Today

Our global impact at a glance

20+
Years of Service
20
Countries
32
Field Offices
150K+
Lives Impacted Annually
80+
Active Projects
200+
Partner Organizations

Looking Forward

As we reflect on over 20 years of humanitarian work, we remain committed to our founding vision: a world where every person can live with dignity and hope. The challenges facing vulnerable communities continue to evolve—from climate change and conflict to health crises and economic inequality—but our commitment to sustainable, community-driven solutions remains unwavering.

With the continued support of donors, partners, and volunteers like you, we will expand our reach, deepen our impact, and empower even more communities to achieve self-reliance and lasting prosperity.

Join Our Journey