70,300 mL of Compassion: Reserve Commander Kwon Seong Ju’s Lifesaving Blood Donation Journey

A heartwarming story about a reserve company commander who willingly rolled up his sleeves to give the gift of life has been shared. The protagonist is Kwon Seong Ju (Military Administrative Officer), Reserve Company Commander of the Yi Sun Shin Brigade, 31st Infantry Division.

According to the South Korean Army on Monday, Kwon donated 50 blood donation certificates to the Korean Association for Children with Leukemia and Cancer on December 19, practicing the spirit of giving. Since his first donation in 1995, Kwon has participated in 150 blood donations over 29 years, contributing 70,300 mL of blood.

Kwon’s journey of generosity began during his college years when he participated in blood donation for the first time, following a friend. Later, as a commissioned officer, he became aware of the urgent need for blood transfusions and began actively participating in donations. Whenever he heard about comrades or acquaintances needing transfusions, he willingly donated his blood certificates. Notably, just before achieving his 100th donation milestone in August 2019, Kwon donated 60 certificates to the Korean Association for Children with Leukemia and Cancer, offering support to children with leukemia and pediatric cancer. In September of the same year, he completed his 100th blood donation and received an honorary commendation from the Korean Red Cross.

Even after becoming a reserve company commander, Kwon continued to advocate for the importance and necessity of blood donation among local full-time reservists. In June 2020, the Korean Red Cross recognized his efforts with a commendation.

Kwon stated, “I have maintained my health alongside regular blood donations, and delivering blood donation certificates to those who truly need them is rewarding. As a reserve company commander, I will continue to fulfill my duties while practicing love for my neighbors.”