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Man fulfills promise to wife, donates organs to four people

From Hankyoreh · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Named sources Outcome reported
  • A 65-year-old man, Shin Bong-seok, fulfilled a promise to his wife by donating his organs after brain death.
  • He donated his liver, lungs, and kidneys, giving the gift of life to four people.
  • Shin was remembered as a responsible husband and a warm-hearted son-in-law who had always wanted to contribute despite financial difficulties.

A 65-year-old man, Shin Bong-seok, has given the gift of life to four individuals through organ donation after his death. Shin passed away on April 6 and his organs, liver, lungs, and kidneys, were donated at Ajou University Hospital in Suwon.

Although we couldn't donate much because of our financial situation, we often talked about donating organs if we could, as a way to leave a trace of our lives in this world.

— Kwon, Shin Bong-seok's wifeRecalling her husband's wish to donate organs.

The decision to donate followed a promise Shin had made with his wife. Despite facing financial hardships that prevented them from making monetary donations, they often discussed the importance of organ donation as a way to leave a meaningful mark on the world. Shin's wife, Kwon, recalled their frequent conversations about donating organs if circumstances allowed.

It's not easy to be so devoted to your in-laws, but it's heartbreaking that such a kind and good person has left us.

— Kwon, Shin Bong-seok's wifeDescribing her husband's character and devotion to her family.

Shin was a devoted family man who worked as a driver for 30 years, never missing a day of work. He was known for his strong sense of responsibility and his gentle nature, never raising his voice at his wife in over three decades of marriage. He was also particularly devoted to his wife's family, visiting his ailing in-laws every weekend for six to seven years.

I can't stop crying just thinking that you left without preparation like this. I'm sorry I couldn't treat you better, and I was happy and joyful to have met you.

— Kwon, Shin Bong-seok's wifeBidding a final farewell to her husband.

His wife remembered him as a kind and wonderful person, expressing deep sorrow at his sudden departure. She shared her regret for not being able to do more for him and cherished their happy years together. To the recipients of his organs, she expressed a heartfelt wish for them to live healthy, happy, and diligent lives, honoring Shin's legacy.

I hope you live healthy, happy, and diligently, living for my husband's sake.

— Kwon, Shin Bong-seok's wifeAddressing the organ recipients.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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