Kumho Petrochemical Sponsors 1,540 White Canes for the Visually Impaired

A total of 21,000 distributed since 2008
Chairman Park Chan-gu "Continued interest in underprivileged groups"

Baek Nam-sik, Director of the Korea Blind Welfare Center, is taking a commemorative photo for the white cane sponsorship. Photo by Kumho Petrochemical

[Asia Economy Reporter Choi Seoyoon] Kumho Petrochemical announced on the 18th that it has donated 54 million KRW to the Korea Blind Welfare Center for the production of white canes for the visually impaired.

Kumho Petrochemical began its white cane sponsorship program in 2008. Every year on October 15th, 'White Cane Day' is commemorated to lead efforts in improving the mobility and daily convenience of the visually impaired. For 15 years, Kumho Petrochemical has continuously supported the Korea Blind Welfare Center. White Cane Day was established in 1980 by the World Blind Union to protect the rights of the visually impaired and to raise social awareness and consideration.

The welfare center plans to use this sponsorship fund to produce white canes and distribute them to 1,540 people with severe visual impairments nationwide. Including this year's sponsorship, the total number of white canes distributed to visually impaired individuals across the country has reached 21,000.

The white cane is a tool used by visually impaired people for walking and activities, helping to detect obstacles and changes in terrain. Since frequent use causes damage and malfunction, regular replacement is necessary, making it a consumable item.

The white canes sponsored by Kumho Petrochemical are made entirely of aluminum for both the part that directly touches the ground and the main body, providing excellent durability. Additionally, they are designed as 9-section antenna-type canes, making them convenient to carry and use, receiving positive feedback from visually impaired users.

Park Chan-gu, Chairman of Kumho Petrochemical Group, said, “Through 15 years of white cane sponsorship, Kumho Petrochemical has contributed to improving the lives of the visually impaired. We hope to continue showing sustained interest in supporting vulnerable groups and carrying out related social contribution activities.”