Thanks to the 5 princesses... Ulsan firefighter receives one-rank special promotion for multi-child merit

Special Promotion of Fire Lieutenant Kim Juhwan
"I Will Raise the Children Better"

A firefighter in Ulsan with five children was specially promoted for the first time nationwide in recognition of his contributions as a parent of multiple children.

On the 14th, Ulsan City announced that Fire Lieutenant Kim Juhwan (45), who works at the Yugok 119 Safety Center of the Ulsan Jungbu Fire Station, was specially promoted one rank from Fire Sergeant to Fire Lieutenant and awarded a Model Public Official certificate. Fire Lieutenant Kim is a father of five daughters aged 4, 6 (twins), 9, and 10. He was also recognized for his leading role in emergency activities during incidents such as the Hanwha Chemical explosion accident and the Yeompo Pier ship fire.

On the 14th, Ulsan City specially promoted Firefighter Kim Juhwan of Ulsan Jungbu Fire Station, a father of five children, to Fire Lieutenant and awarded him a Model Public Official Certificate. The photo shows Fire Lieutenant Kim's family. [Image source=Yonhap News Agency·Ulsan Fire Headquarters]

Fire Lieutenant Kim said, "Raising five children has not been easy, but when I come home from work and the kids run up and hug me, it’s so heartwarming." He added, "When I respond to fire scenes and face dangerous situations, the faces of my children and wife come to mind first, and I tell myself, ‘I must return safely.’" He also said, "I was happy to hear about my promotion and will raise my children even better."

A fellow firefighter described Kim as "a friend who never expressed the fatigue from parenting at work and has always been humble and quietly diligent in his duties."

An official from Ulsan City said, "This special promotion for a public official with five children is the first case nationwide and reflects the city’s strong commitment to encouraging employees with multiple children and overcoming the low birthrate issue." Starting next year, Ulsan City plans to establish a '(Grand)parent Grandchild Care Allowance' to create a stable care environment for families caring for grandchildren, and will also promote projects such as issuing 'Children’s Culture Pass Cards' and supporting 'Noise Prevention Mats for Child-Friendly Floors.'

Netizens who heard the news responded with comments such as, "This is a true patriot. I hope he receives more support," "Given our country’s low birthrate situation, full support is necessary," "Truly patriotic," and "I support special promotions for parents of multiple children." However, some opinions also emerged, such as, "He is patriotic, but isn’t the promotion somewhat unexpected?" and "Why should having children unrelated to firefighting duties be a reason for promotion?"

Meanwhile, Ulsan Mayor Kim Doogeom stated, "We will create a social atmosphere where families with multiple children are respected and supported, and implement sustainable Ulsan-type population policies and low birthrate response policies."