A man in his 60s who pledged to donate organs about 20 years ago saved two lives and passed away.
According to the Korea Organ Donation Agency (KODA) on the 24th, Lee Won-hee, 66, donated both kidneys at Wonkwang University Hospital on Nov. 7 last year.
Lee, who ran a company related to construction materials, collapsed on Oct. 20 that year while at work. He was immediately transported to a hospital by a colleague but never regained consciousness.
Lee often told his family that he wanted to donate his organs, and in 2007 he registered as a donor. His family decided to donate, hoping he would depart after doing something meaningful to save someone's life.
According to the bereaved family, Lee, born in Cheonan as the third of three sons and two daughters, was usually diligent and active. He was a devout church elder who attended dawn prayer every day and enjoyed various hobbies such as table tennis, drums, and saxophone. He was said to have been a considerate husband who gave his wife flowers.
Lee's daughter, Lee Na-eun, said, "Dad, we are really grateful for everything you did for us, and I'm so sorry I didn't say I love you more often. We'll be doing well, so please be well in heaven. Let's be sure to meet again."