Seoul Honors Veterans for Their Dedication and Sacrifice

In June, designated as the month of national defense and veterans, a meaningful award ceremony was held to honor the contributions of veterans to the nation and local community and to elevate the honor of veteran families.
 
The 53rd Seoul Veterans Award ceremony took place on June 17 at the War Memorial of Korea in Yongsan, Seoul. The event was hosted by Aju Economy and sponsored by the Seoul Regional Veterans Affairs Office.
 
Attendees included Lee Seung-woo, head of the Seoul Regional Veterans Affairs Office; Lee Hee-jung, head of the Northern Seoul Veterans Affairs Office; and Hwang Mi-kyung, a professor at Seoul Christian University who served as the chair of the judging panel.
 
Lee Seung-woo expressed the significance of the event, stating, "It is meaningful to hold the 53rd Seoul Veterans Award ceremony this year. Thanks to the sacrifices and dedication of our veterans, proud South Korea has come this far today."
 
Hwang Mi-kyung commented on the awardees, saying, "The five recipients today have quietly practiced the spirit of veterans and have made substantial contributions to the community, the nation, and social integration. Despite their different life paths, they have demonstrated the shared values of sacrifice, dedication, sharing, and community care, showcasing the value of proactive veterans' support."
 
Awardee Seo Soon-wook, head of the Songpa-gu chapter of the Korea Special Mission Veterans Association, has actively participated in various volunteer activities and has taken the lead in community service during disasters, contributing to social welfare. As the head of the Songpa-gu chapter, he has worked diligently for the welfare and unity of local members, aiding the development of the community and the organization.
 
Yoo Woong-sik, head of the Dongjak-gu chapter of the Korea Vietnam Veterans Association, has dedicated himself to community development and the promotion of a culture of sharing based on a strong sense of national duty. He has been actively involved in improving the welfare of veterans and their families and has contributed significantly to creating a respectful atmosphere for national veterans.
 
Yoon Dae-sik, head of the Jungnang-gu chapter of the Korea Disabled Veterans Association, overcame significant challenges after losing his right wrist in an accident while serving as a non-commissioned officer in 1967. He successfully raised three children and, despite his hardships, took office as chapter head in 2014, leading efforts to enhance the welfare and rights of veterans and contribute to community development.
 
Choi Gil-soon, head of the Mapo-gu chapter of the Korea War Victims Association, has been at the forefront of memorial activities and veterans' initiatives since 2014, dedicating herself to caring for elderly members and those with severe intellectual disabilities, thereby enhancing member welfare.
 
Choi Baek-soon, head of the Seongbuk-gu chapter of the Korea War Widows Association, has devoted over 30 years to various volunteer activities that honor the noble patriotism of families of national heroes, significantly contributing to community development and the promotion of veterans' culture.
 
Im Kyu-jin, president of Aju Economy, remarked, "Each of you awardees has dedicated yourselves to the nation and society in your respective roles, fulfilling your responsibilities and missions quietly behind the scenes. It is because of your dedication that today's South Korea exists, and the values of veterans' support shine even brighter."