"Parents' Devotion Becomes a Stepping Stone for Nurturing Talent"... Jaebok Scholarship Foundation Awards Its First Scholarships

13.5 Million Won Awarded to 20 Students from 16 Schools
Chae Jongmin, CEO of Suwan Funeral Service, Donates 10 Million Won

The Jaebok Scholarship Foundation (Chairman: Ko Gilseok, CEO of Gwangju Central Hospital) held the "2026 First Scholarship Award Ceremony" at noon on the 23rd at Jaebok Hall, located on the B1 floor of Gwangju Central Hospital, presenting a total of 13.5 million won in scholarships to 20 middle school, high school, and university students.

The first scholarship recipients of the foundation were selected from 16 schools, consisting of 5 middle school students, 8 high school students, and 7 university students. The foundation finalized the scholarship recipients after a review and board approval based on recommendations from each school.

The Jaebok Scholarship Foundation held the "2026 First Scholarship Award Ceremony" on the 23rd at Jaebok Hall, located on the B1 floor of Gwangju Central Hospital. Provided by Jaebok Scholarship Foundation

The Jaebok Scholarship Foundation was established by Chairman Ko Gilseok in honor of his parents' wishes. The name "Jaebok" was created by taking one character from each of his parents' names. The foundation aims to pass on the spirit of Ko’s parents—who supported their children's education while farming in Changpyeong, Damyang, Jeollanam-do in the 1970s—to local students.

Chairman Ko said, "Thanks to the love and sacrifice of my parents, who were determined to ensure their children received an education, I was able to become a doctor and the person I am today," adding, "I hope the foundation can become a solid stepping stone for young people who are pursuing their dreams regardless of their circumstances."

He also encouraged the first group of scholarship recipients, saying, "I hope you will grow up to become members of society who can share your warmth and reach out to others in the future."

The scholarship recipients expressed their gratitude and shared their future goals.

Lee Sihu, a second-year student at Gwangju Jeil High School, said, "I feel grateful and deeply respectful for the decision to share such valuable resources for the future of others, and I feel a strong sense of responsibility as a scholarship recipient."

Lim Jiuk, a first-year student at Myeongjin High School, said, "I will actively participate in things I can do for my school and community, and, one day, become someone who can give back the support I have received to others," adding, "I will not forget the scholarship and encouragement I received today and will continue to work diligently."

An Hyunsu, a second-year student in the Pre-Medical Program at Chosun University, said, "Although scholarship recipients are preparing for different futures, we share the same goal of becoming valuable members of society."

An went on to add, "Receiving this scholarship from a hospital that protects the health of the local community means more to me than simple support, and I will strive to become someone who helps neighbors in my own way."

During the ceremony, Chae Jongmin, CEO of Suwan Funeral Service, donated 10 million won to the foundation as scholarship funds. The foundation presented a plaque of appreciation in return.

CEO Chae said, "I am happy to be part of supporting someone's dreams and helping to make those dreams become reality," adding, "I will continue to look out for those in need in the local community and contribute to sharing."

A parent attending the event said, "It feels as though we have been given the gift of knowing that our society is cheering for our children," adding, "I will raise my child properly to repay the love we have received."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.