'1 Billion Won Donation to Korea Railroad for "A Debt of the Heart" from 50 Years Ago'

Korea Railroad President Son Byung-seok (first from the right) is taking a commemorative photo after presenting a plaque of appreciation to the couple Lee Jung-gwi (second from the right) and Lee Sook-woo (third from the right). Photo by Korea Railroad

[Asia Economy (Daejeon) Reporter Jeong Il-woong] A businessman in his 60s donated 100 million won to Korea Railroad, saying he wanted to repay a debt of conscience from 50 years ago.

According to Korea Railroad on the 4th, Lee Jeong-gwi (65, Sejong, businessman) visited the Korea Railroad headquarters and expressed his intention to donate, saying, "I have felt guilty for riding the train without a ticket during my school days," and "I hope the donation will be used as scholarships for underprivileged youth."

Mr. Lee said, "During my high school years in the 1970s, due to my family's financial difficulties, I frequently rode the train without a ticket on the Cheonan Station to Yongsan Station route while commuting to school."

He added, "I achieved my dreams by commuting by train during that time, and now I have decided to make a donation to repay the debt I owe to the railroad from the past."

Korea Railroad plans to use the donation through the Railroad Public Welfare Foundation, a public interest support organization.