Suncheon Fire Station's Fire Lieutenant Park Byung-joo Selected as National Hero Firefighter

Chief Ha Su-cheol of Suncheon Fire Station (left) and Fire Lieutenant Park Byung-joo (right) (Photo by Suncheon Fire Station)

[Suncheon=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Lee Hyung-kwon] Suncheon Fire Station announced on the 25th that Fire Lieutenant Park Byung-joo, who works in the rescue team, was selected as a National Hero Firefighter and will receive a commendation from the Fire Agency Chief along with a prize of 10 million won.

The Hero Firefighter award, now in its 16th year, is the most prestigious commendation given to firefighters who serve as exemplary heroes through courageous on-site activities.

Fire Lieutenant Park Byung-joo was appointed to the fire service in December 2004 and has worked as a rescue team member for 17 years. He has devoted himself to protecting citizens' property and lives at numerous sites, including the search at Paengmok Port during the Sewol ferry disaster and rescue operations in flood-affected areas of Gurye County. Last year, he also contributed to the Jeonnam Fire Headquarters' overall victory by participating as the team leader in the rescue category at the 34th National Firefighting Skills Competition.

Suncheon Fire Station held a separate award ceremony to celebrate Fire Lieutenant Park Byung-joo's achievement.

About 30 fire officials, including Fire Chief Ha Soo-cheol of Suncheon Fire Station, attended the ceremony, which proceeded with the presentation of the commendation and prize, an encouragement speech, acceptance remarks, and commemorative photos.

Fire Chief Ha Soo-cheol said, “As the rescue team leader, he quietly fulfilled his duties and earned the honor of being a Hero Firefighter. I congratulate Fire Lieutenant Park, who has become a source of pride and confidence for Suncheon Fire Station, and I expect him to continue fulfilling his role on the field.”

Fire Lieutenant Park Byung-joo expressed, “I believe I received this award on behalf of the staff at Suncheon Fire Station. I will continue to do my best for the safety of the residents.”