Three Heroes of the R.O.K. Navy Submarine Force Command: Dedication Through Service, Donations, and Acts of Kindness

The R.O.K. Navy Submarine Force Command announced on Sunday that its members are spreading love for their neighbors through donations and volunteer work as the year comes to an end.

The first hero is Park Seong Hyun, a civilian administrator at the Submarine Maintenance Depot, who achieved a cumulative 3,500 hours of volunteer service this year—a remarkable record. Since starting his first volunteer activity in March 1988, Park has consistently engaged in acts of kindness for 36 years.

Park participates in various volunteer activities, including youth psychological counseling, human rights and legal protection, and environmental conservation. He has also donated 236 blood cells, leading the way in sharing the gift of life.

In his pursuit of creating a trusted Navy that serves the public, Park has obtained degrees and certifications in military human rights and published academic papers on the subject.

“I believe that small acts of love can make a big difference for someone,” Park said. “I will continue to dedicate myself to spreading positive influence through volunteering and blood donations.”

The second hero is Senior Master Sergeant Lee Gi Hyeong, a staff member of the Logistics Division at the R.O.K. Navy Submarine Force Command. Lee demonstrates love through continuous donations and volunteer work for those in need.

In 2022, while serving aboard the ROKS Yi Eok Gi, Lee formed a partnership with a social welfare organization in Geoje, Gyeongsangnam-do. Even after transferring to a new post, Lee continued to make personal monthly donations to the organization and participated in volunteer activities supporting local farms and welfare facilities.

Lee’s altruistic efforts were revealed through the organization he volunteers with. The mayor of Geoje recognized his contributions to community development and service with an award.

“While my contributions may not be substantial or grandiose, I hope they can bring some warmth to those in need during this holiday season,” Lee expressed.

The final hero is Master Sergeant Kim Tae Woon, a crew member aboard the ROKS Son Won Il. Kim donated the entire prize of $760 that he received for being recognized in the National Military Excellence Proposal competition to the Sea of Love Scholarship Foundation.

The National Military Excellence Proposal competition rewards innovative ideas for improving administrative processes. Kim received an encouragement award for his proposal to enhance the emergency cutting device for the towed sonar array on the Son Won Il-class submarine.

To use his prize meaningfully, Kim decided to donate it to the Sea of Love Scholarship Foundation, which supports the children of Navy personnel who died in the line of duty. “As a submarine crew member, I will continue to refine my expertise and contribute to establishing a flawless readiness posture,” Kim said.