Volunteering After Work and on Holidays During His Lifetime
Son Says, "I Am Proud of My Father Who Left After Doing a Good Deed"
A motorcycle mechanic in his 50s, who had consistently volunteered to help his neighbors, passed away after giving new life to others through brain death organ donation.
On May 15, the Korea Organ and Tissue Donation Agency announced that on March 24, at Inje University Haeundae Paik Hospital, Shin Gilsung (age 59) donated his heart and liver, saving the lives of two people, and provided hope to about 100 patients through human tissue donation before passing away.
On March 7, Shin collapsed at home and was transported to the hospital, but he never regained consciousness and was declared brain dead. In accordance with Shin's wishes, who had said during his lifetime, "If I ever fall into a brain-dead state, I want to do something good by saving someone," his family decided to proceed with organ donation.
Born in Busan, Shin dreamed of becoming a motorcycle racer as a child. For over 30 years, he ran a motorcycle shop, leading a passionate life by studying motorcycle repair and volunteering, despite the physically demanding routine of repairing bikes from morning until evening.
He would wake up at 6 a.m. to swim before work, and after work or on weekends, he was actively involved in various community services, including serving as a local youth association president, participating in quarantine and crime prevention volunteer work, and helping neighbors by wallpapering and flooring their homes. For these efforts, he received numerous certificates of appreciation and commendations. Even with his busy schedule filled with work and volunteering, he was a devoted family man, leaving his mark in every corner of his home.
Shin's son, Jongwoo, said, "It is unbearably sad and painful to know that I will never see my father again, but I am proud that he left after doing such a good deed. I hope you are happy and joyful in heaven. I love you," he said in his final farewell.
Lee Samyeol, President of the Korea Organ and Tissue Donation Agency, said, "I am grateful for the warm-hearted love of donor Shin Gilsung and his bereaved family, who practiced the sharing of life. Miraculous acts that save someone's life will become the driving force that makes our society healthier and brighter," he said.
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