Transforming Ilsan Lake Park into a whirlwind of cultural merriment, the Closing Ceremony on September 15 ceremonially concluded the Korea events with a spectacular unveiling of a one hundred foot May Pole swathed in colorful banners upon which were printed the values and ethics of World Culture Open. The Closing Ceremony hoisted high the Moon of Dreams, a 60-foot high installation art piece bearing messages of peace from children of every continent. Artist Mr. Kang who created the concept for the Moon of Dreams, reflected, "I could have flown this Moon of Dreams in the sky. Instead, I left it float on the water. I dream of a day when this moon will be able to fly high into the sky - a day when all deadly feuds and conflicts disappear."

Ashfaq Ishaq, Executive Director of the International Child Arts Foundation and a WCO 2004 Award winner, concluded the evening by prophetically stating, "I envision a WCO where we all can share and exchange ideas and suggestions and learn from the experiences of the many people who are devoting themselves to bettering our world. I believe that if WCO continues for another five years or ten years, the whole world will be taking part in this movement."

Seoul's WCO 2004 had clearly lit afire the torch of tolerance and mutual appreciation, spreading hope among participants ready to return home to facilitate social change locally and regionally. The enthusiasm was palpable, the momentum contagious.