Korea has launched an official organization of volunteers to be sent overseas, in efforts to enhance its image abroad by reaching out to those in need in various parts of the world.

A launch ceremony for the group, named World Friends Korea, was held at the presidential office of Cheong Wa Dae Thursday (May 7), attended by President Lee Myung-bak and some 300 volunteers to be dispatched overseas in the near future.

World Friends Korea has integrated existing volunteer groups under different programs like those organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Ministry of Public Administration and Security and the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology.

The new group plans to send some 3,000 volunteers abroad every year, up from about 2,000 Korean assistance workers going to foreign countries each year under previous programs.

With this, Korea becomes the second-largest country after the United States when it comes to the number of volunteers working overseas. The United States sends about 8,000 such workers abroad annually.

Speaking at the launch, President Lee Myung-bak said the project would enhance the country''s reputation.

He said that with the launch of World Friends Korea, the country will work to build an image of Korea that is a friend to all other nations in the world, while expanding its role as a responsible member of the international community.

President Lee encouraged the volunteers to feel a sense of duty and pride in their service and to befriend those receiving their assistance, reminding them to respect the customs, laws and culture of the host nations.

The volunteers will work alongside governments, schools, non-profit organizations and so on in various fields.

To diversify the pool of future volunteers, plans are underway to invite professionals from various fields to participate and share their expertise while volunteering overseas.