Recipients tour key GMP facilities after ceremony, reflecting on the value of sharing life
The Korean Industrial Health Association's Hanmaeum Blood Center held a ceremony Thursday at its main office in Gunpo to mark the 2026 National Blood Donor Day, presenting commendations to individuals and organizations that have contributed to promoting a blood donation culture and ensuring a stable blood supply.
A total of 15 teams and individuals received honors this year. The Ministry of Health and Welfare minister's individual commendations went to Jeon Jeong-pyo, an administrative officer at the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office; Oh Dae-seong, a staff member at Daesung Duct; Choi Seung-hyeok, a department head at StoreMax; and Lee Gi-taek, a deputy manager at Kyonggi University. Nexen Tire Co. received the minister's group commendation.
The Korean Industrial Health Association president's individual commendations went to Kim Gyeong-hui, head of the Jeong Daun Life Sharing Volunteer Corps; Kim Jeong-ae, head of the Namdong Sunshine Volunteer Corps; Kim Seok, a team leader at Kyungin Women's University; and Yang Hyeon-a, a health manager at LG Innotek's Gwangju office. DY Deokyang Co. received the association president's group commendation.
The Hanmaeum Blood Center director's individual commendations went to Kim U-jin, a department head at the SK Key Foundry labor union, and Lee Dong-eun, a multiple-time blood donor. Group commendations from the center director went to Hyundai ITC Co., the Anyang City Social Welfare Council, and the Life Committee of the Social Evangelization Bureau of the Catholic Diocese of Suwon.
After the ceremony, recipients toured the blood center's key GMP facilities, observing firsthand how donated blood is processed into blood products and tested. Hwang Yu-seong, director of Hanmaeum Blood Center, said the dedication and generosity of those honored Thursday "is a precious practice of life-sharing that delivers hope to countless patients." He added his sincere gratitude to all honorees for their long-standing efforts to promote a blood donation culture. He also said the center would continue to strengthen recognition of blood donors and work to build a stable blood supply while further spreading the culture of blood donation.
kty@heraldcorp.com
