Seoul, South Korea – S-Oil, a major South Korean refiner, has honored eight firefighters for their exceptional service and bravery at its annual "Hero Firefighter Awards" ceremony. The event, held on November 28th at the Roccahaus Hotel in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, recognized the selfless dedication of these individuals who have risked their lives to protect communities.

The grand prize of 20 million won and a trophy was awarded to Fire Lieutenant Yoo Seung-geol of Namyangju Fire Station in Gyeonggi Province. Yoo was recognized for his outstanding performance in extinguishing a warehouse fire in Ilpae-dong in April, rescuing a person with intellectual disabilities in Wabu-eup, and conducting an underwater search to save a life during a water accident in Hwado-eup in June.

A panel of fire experts commended Yoo for his unwavering dedication, citing his 978 fire incidents and 1,624 rescue operations, including the safe rescue of a severely demented elderly person last winter.

Seven other firefighters were also honored with awards of 10 million won each. They include Kim Kwang-soo of Cheongsong Fire Station, Kim Yong-soo of Yeongjong Fire Station, Kim Wook of Dunsan Fire Station, Sung Hoon of Pyeongtaek Fire Station, Yoon Seong-yeol of Jincheon Fire Station, Lee Dae-sik of Dongbu Fire Station, and Jo Jong-seok of Dalseong Fire Station.

"We are deeply impressed by the bravery and dedication of these firefighters," said Anwar Al-Hejazi, CEO of S-Oil. "We are proud to support the S-Oil Fire Hero Guardian campaign and will continue to provide assistance to firefighters and their families."

Since 2006, S-Oil has been supporting the firefighting community through its Fire Hero Guardian campaign, which provides various forms of assistance, including bereavement benefits for families of deceased firefighters, scholarships for their children, and medical expenses for injured firefighters.

The awards ceremony highlights the company's commitment to giving back to the community and recognizing the invaluable contributions of firefighters.