Father of Five Who Fell Into a Coma While Rescuing Colleague in Manhole Accident Gives New Life to Three Through Organ Donation

Fell into Brain Death While Trying to Save a Colleague in the Incheon Manhole Accident
Family: "We Want Our Children to Remember Their Father With Pride"

Lee Yongho, 48, who fell into a brain-dead state following the Incheon manhole accident in July, gave new life to three people through organ donation before passing away.

Lee Yongho, a victim of the Incheon manhole accident who saved three lives through organ donation, and his family. Korea Organ and Tissue Donation Agency

According to the Korea Organ and Tissue Donation Agency on September 11, Lee donated his liver and both kidneys at Inha University Hospital on July 14.

Lee, who was the head of a wastewater and sewage pipeline inspection company, lost consciousness along with an employee while trying to rescue the worker who had collapsed due to toxic gas in a manhole on a road in Gyeyang-gu, Incheon, on July 6. The accident resulted in the deaths of Lee and the employee. The Incheon Environmental Corporation, which commissioned the work, was investigated on charges of occupational negligence resulting in death and violations of the Serious Accidents Punishment Act.

Lee, who had lived with visual impairment in one eye since childhood, was skilled with his hands and enjoyed woodworking. He diligently ran his own company, utilizing the skills he had learned. He had five children with his wife, who is from the Philippines, and their youngest was only four months old at the time of the accident.

Lee Yongho, a victim of the Incheon manhole accident who saved three lives through organ donation. Korea Organ and Tissue Donation Agency

After losing Lee so suddenly, his family decided on organ donation, hoping he would be remembered as someone to be proud of. The family said, "Because he himself had physical difficulties, he was always someone who helped those around him who were suffering," adding, "We hope the children remember their father as a proud person who practiced the noble act of sharing life."

His wife, Lee Sina, gave her final farewell to her husband, saying, "I will do my best for your parents and our children, so please don't worry." His older sister, Lee Jungha, promised, "We will protect the family you tried so hard to keep safe, together."

Lee Samyeol, president of the Korea Organ and Tissue Donation Agency, stated, "We are grateful to every donor who practices the sharing of life, but the story of donor Lee Yongho is especially moving and heartbreaking." He added, "The Korea Organ and Tissue Donation Agency will do its utmost to stand by the donor and his bereaved family, who worked so hard to help others, and to provide any support we can."