91-Year-Old Lifelong Learner Couple's Tearful Graduation Ceremony Moves Hearts

Goheung Namyang Middle School, Song Samsu and Park Jeongae Couple Receive Diplomas
Dream of Education Interrupted by the Korean War Fulfilled After 70 Years
All Students, Staff, and Family Members Give a Standing Ovation
"A New Beginning... A Profound Impact on the School and Local Community"

At Goheung Namyang Middle School in Jeollanam-do, an elderly couple who returned to learning received their diplomas alongside young graduates, delivering a touching moment.

The school announced that on the 10th, Song Samsu (91) and Park Jeongae (87) received their middle school diplomas together with three young graduates during a ceremony held in the school auditorium.

Song Samsu and Park Jeongae couple who held a graduation ceremony at Goheung Namyang Middle School. Provided by Jeonnam Provincial Office of Education

When the couple stepped onto the stage to receive their diplomas, the auditorium was filled with warmth and emotion. All the students and staff celebrated the couple's passion and effort with resounding applause. More than 20 family members, including their children and grandchildren, stood up to offer their heartfelt support and shared in the joy of this special moment.

This graduation ceremony fulfilled the couple's dream of education, which had been interrupted by the Korean War, after 70 years. Having raised four children and led busy lives, the couple resumed their studies in 2022 and, after three years of effort, finally graduated. Their achievement became a milestone in life, delivering deep inspiration beyond the mere completion of academic courses.

Known as a small school, Goheung Namyang Middle School inspired the couple's motivation to learn through a customized curriculum. In math class, they used logic puzzles and Sudoku, while English lessons progressed step by step from the alphabet to practical expressions used in daily life.

The couple's talents particularly shone in the poetry writing program. Song Samsu wrote in his poem "Old Tree": "Just because a tree is old, it does not mean only old flowers bloom; the older the tree, the more beautiful the flowers it bears," delivering a profound message. Park Jeongae achieved excellent grades in all subjects thanks to her outstanding memory and conveyed her warm heart through sincere writing assignments.

Song Samsu said, "I feel sad and regretful to part ways with the young students after spending three years together. I will never forget the love and kindness the staff and students have shown us," adding, "I sincerely hope that Namyang Middle School students will become outstanding talents for our country in the future."

Beyond academics, the couple also played a significant role in improving the school culture. Song Samsu connected with students through his artistic talents, while Park Jeongae, with her warm personality, became like a grandparent to them. The wisdom and gentleness they demonstrated brought positive changes to the entire school, and not a single case of school violence occurred over the past three years.

Principal Lee Jungho said, "The passion for learning, sharing, consideration, and respect for elders shown by Song Samsu and Park Jeongae has deeply touched the entire school and local community. Their graduation is not an end, but a new beginning, and will continue to leave us with valuable lessons."