Volunteer Leader Saves 3 Lives Through Organ Donation

A man who dedicated his life to helping neighbors made one final gift that saved three lives.

Jeong Gu-gyeon, 61, donated his lungs and both kidneys on January 28 after being declared brain dead at Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital in South Korea. The volunteer leader had collapsed unconscious at home 10 days earlier and never regained consciousness.

His family knew exactly what he would have wanted. Jeong had often told them while watching organ donation news, "Wouldn't it be great if my healthy body could save others?" When the time came, they honored his wish without hesitation.

The eldest of four siblings from Jeongeup City, Jeong was known for his bright personality and generous spirit. He served as chairman of both Lions and Rotary Club volunteer groups, leading annual kimchi-making events and nursing home visits. Friends remember him as someone who always reached out first when neighbors needed help.

Five years before his death, Jeong survived a collapse from epilepsy. He committed to walking three hours daily to regain his strength and protect his health. That dedication meant his organs were healthy enough to give three recipients a new beginning.

Sunny's Take

His daughter, Jeong Si-young, shared a moving tribute. "My father was a genuinely good person I could wholeheartedly respect," she said. "I will live well, taking care of each other just as he did, so please rest in peace in a better place."

The Korea Organ Donation Agency announced the donation on April 10, sharing Jeong's story as a testament to how one person's generosity ripples outward. The three recipients, whose identities remain private, received gifts that changed everything.

Jeong's life of service didn't end when his heart stopped beating.