A man in his 60s who overcame a crisis after going bankrupt due to the IMF, gifted new life to four people through brain-dead organ donation and departed for heaven.
The Korea Organ Donation Agency (KODA) announced on the 20th that Hong Seung-je (65) donated lungs, liver, and kidneys (both) through brain-dead organ donation at Seoul Medical Center, saving four lives before passing away on the 13th of last month.
On the 2nd of last month, Hong suddenly collapsed while checking the work situation of assigned personnel at the manpower office he operated and was urgently transported to the hospital, but he did not regain consciousness and fell into a brain-dead state.
Hong often told his family, "I think it would be nice if the assets I have accumulated could be donated and my body could be used for those who are suffering when I am gone." His family, who knew his wishes well, decided to donate.
Born as the fourth of five children in Masan, Gyeongnam, Hong graduated from the Department of Architecture and worked at a construction company before running a construction business after resigning. Although he went bankrupt due to the IMF, he successfully recovered by running a manpower office during difficult times.
Hong's son cried, "It feels like the time spent with my father was too short, and it's hard to believe that I can't see him anymore. I hope he rests peacefully in heaven, and I will strive to be a light and pillar in society, emulating the life he showed me. Father, I love you so much."