The International Association of Lions Clubs was established in the United States of America, by Melvin Jones in April, 1917, with the specific purpose of serving society. Working towards its objective of building world peace and improving conditions for humanity, Lions Clubs have engaged in humanitarian service, serving people throught the world regardless of color, religion, or ideology. The organization is the largest of all civilian service club organiztions with approximately 1.5 million members in more than 180 countries.

The name "Lions" is an acronym which atands for the words of the Lions Club's motto Liberty, Intelligence, Our Nation's Safety. The clubs firmly beleive that their whole-hearted efforts in community services will inevitably contribute to the world peace. The organiztion is devoted to volunteer community service tailored to meet each local community's needs.

The first Lions Club in Korea was created in February, 1959. Currently the Korean Lions Clubs boast a total membership exceeding 57,000 persons. Each club has focused on its comunity activities on providing free medical service in remote villages, helping orphans, the elderly, and the handicapped, and organizing scholarship programs. These days, their focus has been directed toward environmental concerns, student counseling, and prevention of drug abuse.