Jung Mong-won, Chairman of Halla Group, Awarded Italian National Order of Merit

Contribution to Fundraising and Securing Medical Supplies for Italy in the Early COVID-19 Pandemic

[Asia Economy Reporter Yoo Je-hoon] Chung Mong-won, Chairman of Halla Group, will be awarded the Order of the Star of Italy by Sergio Mattarella, President of Italy. This honor recognizes his active participation in fundraising campaigns and other efforts to support Italy, which faced difficulties due to COVID-19 last year.

On the 3rd, Halla Group announced that Chairman Chung will receive the 'Ordine di Stella d'Italia' medal at an award ceremony held at the Italian Ambassador's residence in Jung-gu, Seoul, hosted by Federico Failla, the Italian Ambassador to Korea.

This medal is awarded to Italians or foreigners who have contributed to exchanges between Italy and specific countries, recommended by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to the President. The Order of the Star of the Italian Republic takes the form of a knighthood, and Chairman Chung will receive the second-highest rank, Commendatore.

Chairman Chung actively participated in fundraising campaigns to support Italy's COVID-19 response last year and contributed to securing medical supplies necessary for COVID-19 prevention through the Civil Protection Department under the Italian Prime Minister's Office and the Lombardy region, based on his extensive experience in manufacturing.

Since his father, Chung In-young, founded the Korea-Italy Friendship Association, Chairman Chung has continued efforts to promote friendly relations between the two countries. The association consists of key figures from academia, business, and culture who share a special affection and interest in Italy.