Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province announced on the 22nd that it has finalized the selection of four winners for the "31st Proud Jeonbuk People Awards," the province's highest and most prestigious honor bestowed upon exemplary citizens who have contributed to local community development and enhanced the pride of residents.

This year, the Province determined the category winners through a rigorous screening process, which included document reviews, on-site investigations, and preliminary and final evaluations of candidates recommended by the Candidate Recommendation Committee, as well as cities, counties, institutions, and organizations.

The four final award recipients are:

Innovation Category: Heo Seok-bong

Economy Category: Kim Yoon-kwon

Culture Category: Lee Kwang-jin

Sharing Category: Kim Doo-bong

Heo Seok-bong, Managing Director of Duksan Ethercit Co., Ltd., the winner in the Innovation Category, was recognized for leading the technological development and localization of Type 4 ultra-high-pressure (700 bar-class) hydrogen storage vessels utilizing locally produced carbon fiber, successfully acquiring international certification. He also drove the completion of a large-scale production plant within the Wanju Techno Valley General Industrial District No. 2 and secured additional investment agreements, spearheading the advancement of Jeonbuk’s hydrogen industry ecosystem and the creation of quality jobs.

Kim Yoon-kwon, CEO of Chamgoeul Co., Ltd. and inaugural president of the Gimje Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the winner in the Economy Category, was recognized for contributing to the development of the regional manufacturing industry and the creation of quality jobs through continuous production facility investments and business expansions. He spearheaded the establishment of the Gimje Chamber of Commerce and Industry to provide a focal point for the regional business community, while leading a culture of coexistence through local talent recruitment, industry-academia cooperation, and being listed as Jeonbuk’s "No. 1 Sharing Prestigious Enterprise" by donating over 100 million won annually.

Lee Kwang-jin, Chairman of the Korea Craft Culture Association, the winner in the Culture Category, was recognized for spearheading the development of craft art through approximately 850 exhibitions and creative works, nurturing younger generations at universities for 27 years, and leading initiatives such as hosting the Iksan Korea Craft Competition and promoting the establishment of a craft museum, thereby expanding the base of local craft culture and enhancing citizens' opportunities to enjoy culture.

Kim Doo-bong, President of the Jeonbuk Branch of the Korean Senior Citizens Association, the winner in the Sharing Category, was recognized for establishing a stable senior welfare infrastructure by constructing an independent senior center and creating a system to improve the treatment of working staff. Furthermore, he has demonstrated a commitment to generational harmony and sharing through long-term efforts—providing scholarships to 286 vulnerable students since 2013, supporting ritual expenses for 26 local Confucian schools (hyanggyo), and operating a free character education program called "Sunday School."

Lim Chul-eon, head of the Planning and Coordination Office of Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province, expressed deep gratitude and respect, stating, "We extend our heartfelt appreciation and respect to those who have raised the pride of our citizens and brightened Jeonbuk's tomorrow through their extraordinary passion and dedication, even behind the scenes." He added, "We hope that the sweat and valuable achievements shed by these individuals will lead to a sense of pride for all citizens, serving as a major driving force to open up a more special and dynamic future for Jeonbuk."

The awards ceremony is scheduled to take place during the 46th Provincial Citizens' Day event on October 23 at the Provincial Government Performance Hall, where winners will be presented with plaques and medals.

Additionally, beneficiaries will receive various perks, including exemption from usage fees for the Demisaem Natural Recreation Forest (twice a year), exemption from admission fees for the 119 Safety Experience Center, and a 50% discount on tuition fees for the Provincial Gugak Center.

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