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 communities and to elevate the dignity 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 Veterans Affairs Office.
 
Attendees included Lee Seung-woo, head of the Seoul 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 noted in her evaluation that the five honorees have quietly practiced the spirit of veterans' service and have made substantial contributions to the community, the nation, and social integration. She emphasized that despite their different life paths, they have embodied the shared values of sacrifice, dedication, sharing, and community care, showcasing the importance of proactive veterans' service.
 
Among the honorees, 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 and emergencies. As the head of the Songpa-gu chapter, he has worked diligently for the welfare and unity of local members, contributing to 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 and mission. He has actively participated in enhancing the welfare of veterans and their families and has contributed significantly to fostering an atmosphere of respect for national heroes.
 
Yoon Dae-sik, head of the Jungnang-gu chapter of the Korea Disabled Veterans Association, overcame significant challenges after losing his right wrist in 1967 while serving as a non-commissioned officer. He successfully raised three children and, despite his difficult circumstances, 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' services since 2014, dedicating herself to caring for elderly members and individuals with severe intellectual disabilities, thereby improving 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 patriotic spirit of those who have sacrificed for the nation, significantly contributing to community development and the promotion of veterans' culture.
 
Im Kyu-jin, president of Aju Economy, remarked, "All of you honorees have dedicated yourselves to the nation and society from your respective positions, fulfilling your responsibilities and missions quietly in the background. It is because of your dedication that today’s South Korea exists, and the values of veterans' service we must uphold shine even brighter."