Shin Dongheon, Director General of Autonomous Safety Office of Chungnam Province, Receives Hongjo Geunjeong Medal for Disaster Management Contributions

On May 23, Chungnam Province announced that Shin Dongheon, Director General of the Autonomous Safety Office, received the Hongjo Geunjeong Medal at the 32nd Disaster Prevention Day ceremony held at the Government Complex Sejong.

Director Shin was recognized for his contributions since January 2023 as the head of the Autonomous Safety Office, focusing on improving the integrated disaster management system that covers both natural and social disasters, and strengthening proactive response capabilities.

His initiatives included: establishing "Chungnam SAFEZONE," a village-level resident-centered evacuation system; discovering and expanding projects for improving areas at risk of natural disasters and preventive measures; promoting a participatory safety culture and fostering the disaster safety industry among residents; forming "Safety Partners" to enhance public-private cooperation; and supporting recovery efforts for the Seocheon fire market and flood damage.

These efforts have been credited with significantly enhancing the community's resilience and contributing to the establishment of a disaster management model unique to Chungnam.

During his tenure as Director General of Environment and Greenery in 2016, Shin led institutional improvements and policy development to address drought issues caused by climate change. In 2021, as Vice Mayor of Cheonan, he implemented policies to overcome COVID-19 and support small business owners, thereby advancing practical policies for community recovery.

Director Shin stated, "I will continue to do my best to strengthen safety management in a way that residents can truly feel, through thorough preparation," and added, "I will strive to minimize human and property damage."

Meanwhile, Director Shin, who holds both the Local Technical Examination and Professional Engineer (Environment) certifications, earned a Ph.D. in Technology Management (Energy) earlier this year, achieving distinction in administration, technology, and academia.