Lee Beomsik, known as the "Left Foot Doctor," who set out on a 400km walking journey to wish for the successful hosting of the 2025 APEC Summit and harmony between East and West, completed his 22-day journey by arriving at the Gyeongju Hwabaek Convention Center (HICO) on July 28.
Overcoming his disability and delivering a message of hope to the entire nation, Dr. Lee's footsteps left a profound impact on Gyeongju, the host city of APEC.
Dr. Beomsik Lee, known as the left-foot doctor, is seen passing in front of Seomyeon Administrative Welfare Center in Gyeongju on the 24th, receiving enthusiastic support from residents before arriving at Gyeongju HICO on the 28th.
On this day, the city of Gyeongju held a welcoming ceremony at the HICO plaza to celebrate Dr. Lee's completion of the journey, attended by more than 300 people including Gyeongju Mayor Joo Nakyoung, City Council Chairman Lee Donghyeop, city and provincial council members, the APEC Pan-Citizen Support Council, the Gyeongju Association of Disabled Persons, and citizen supporter groups.
The event began with a powerful performance by the Silla Royal Court Band, followed by a series of programs such as the presentation of congratulatory wreaths, welcoming speeches, a left foot footprinting, and a performance wishing for the success of APEC, all of which received enthusiastic responses from the attendees.
Dr. Lee Beomsik said, "It was not an easy challenge due to the heat and monsoon rains, but through this journey, I wanted to deliver a message of hope that 'anyone can do it.' I am deeply grateful for the warm welcome from Gyeongju citizens, and I hope that my small steps will lead to the great stride of a successful Gyeongju APEC."
Gyeongju Mayor Joo Nakyoung emphasized, "Dr. Lee Beomsik's challenge is a symbol of courage that goes beyond disability, and it is in line with the journey of Gyeongju, a local city, moving toward the world through APEC. The challenge of facing the impossible and the power of solidarity in walking together bring about true change."
He added, "Gyeongju will inherit Dr. Lee's will and passion and deliver inspiration to the world with the most dignified APEC Summit ever."
Previously, Dr. Lee Beomsik started his journey at Mudeungsan in Gwangju on July 7, passing through ten local governments including Damyang, Sunchang, Haman, Geochang, Hapcheon, Goryeong, Daegu, Gyeongsan, and Yeongcheon, before arriving at Gyeongju HICO on this day.
Dr. Lee completed the "miracle of the left foot" by walking the entire 400km journey over 22 days.
Especially in the final Gyeongju section, citizens voluntarily came out to cheer along the streets, and more than 80 supporter group members, as well as Lee Rakwoo, Chairman of the Gyeongju City Council APEC Support Special Committee, and city council members, joined the walk, adding significance to the completion.
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