With Help from Citizens, Heart Beat Again... Woman in Her 60s Gives New Life to Four Before Passing Away

Kim Jungae Collapses from Cerebral Hemorrhage, Donates Lungs, Liver, and Kidneys
Family Says, "We Decided to Donate in Gratitude for the Help She Received Until the End"

A woman in her 60s who had fallen into brain death due to a sudden cerebral hemorrhage has passed away after saving the lives of four people.

The Korea Organ and Tissue Donation Agency announced on April 23 that Kim Jungae, age 68, donated her lungs, liver, and both kidneys at Gangnam Severance Hospital in Seoul on March 18, saving precious lives before passing away.

Kim collapsed suddenly while dining at a restaurant on March 6 and was transported to the hospital. Thanks to the help of nearby citizens, she was resuscitated from cardiac arrest, but ultimately did not regain consciousness and was declared brain dead. Remembering the warm help Kim had received at the end, her family decided to proceed with organ donation.

The bereaved family expressed their gratitude to the citizens who performed CPR without hesitation when Kim collapsed from cerebral hemorrhage and went into cardiac arrest, to the paramedics who arrived quickly at the scene, and to the medical staff who dedicated themselves to her treatment.

Kim was born in Gangjin-gun, Jeollanam-do, the third of six siblings. She was a caring person who never lost her smile even in difficult times and was always expressive of her love for her family. She enjoyed music, often playing the piano and singing, or attending performances. For over 30 years, she was also a member of her church choir with her husband. On weekends, she participated in volunteer activities at church to help neighbors in need.

Her son, Han Gukran, said, "Whenever I close my eyes and think of my mother, I always remember her bright smile. Although I am saddened that I can no longer see that smile, I hope she is even happier and brighter in heaven," leaving a message for his departed mother.

Lee Samyeol, president of the Korea Organ and Tissue Donation Agency, stated, "I am deeply grateful to the donor's family for making the noble decision to save other lives while saying farewell to their loved one. I believe that such miraculous acts will bring warmth and light to our society."