Kim Soon-jeon Donates 1 Billion Won, Her Savings of Over 60 Years On September 14th, an elderly lady dressed in a traditional Korean dress made of ramie fabric knocked on the door of the President’s office. To the startled staff, she said in a soft voice, “I came to make a donation. Please, could you make a scholarship in my name?” Kim Soon-jeon, 89, wanted to donate 4 real estate properties in Joonggok-dong, Gwangjin-gu, and funds worth 1 billion won. She said that, “I have worked hard all my life, sometimes even skipping my meals, but not having had the opportunity to learn remains my biggest regret and sadness. If students out there in need of support are given that opportunity, I believe that it is me getting an education through them.” Kim was born in Hwanghae Province in 1923 to an affluent family. However, she was not sent to school because her family thought that an education was a waste on a girl. Kim said that, “I told my parents that I could do well, but nobody listened to me. In the mornings, I could not be more envious of my elder brothers going to school.” The Korean War tore Kim’s family apart. Kim fled to the south with her husband. The only thing they had was a blanket that they slept under. After settling down in Seoul, Kim worked diligently and she saved up whatever she could. “I walked to Dongdaemun from Huam-dong every day to save bus fare. I literally tightened my belt,” she said. With the savings, she bought a building. With the rent she got from leasing the building, the family was able to get by. When her family suggested that they afford a more comfortable living, she remained silent. Kim led a humble life sewing up her undergarments when they got worn out. People who know her say that she was strict with money even when buying groceries. As to whether she hesitated at all about giving up her entire fortune which she worked hard to accumulate for over 60 years, she replied, “My family no longer has to worry about its livelihood. I wish that students without means are given this money so that they can become greater people.” Yonsei will create a scholarship under Kim’s name and also oversee her funeral. Recently, Yonsei University Severance Hospital sent Kim who is hard of hearing hearing-aids as a gift.