One life ended, but 5 others saved through organ donation

Jung Kang-deok / Courtesy of the Korea Organ Donation Agency

When Jung Kang-deok, 53, failed to show up for work on Dec. 26, a colleague noted the absence as unusual. After repeated calls went unanswered, the colleague reached out to Jung’s family. Police were notified and later found him unconscious at his home before he was taken to a hospital.

Despite medical treatment, he did not regain consciousness and was subsequently declared brain-dead. He died on Jan. 9 at Korea University Anam Hospital.

Through organ donation, he saved five lives. His heart, liver, both kidneys and corneas were transplanted to patients in need, according to the Korea Organ Donation Agency.

Jung’s family said he had previously spoken about life-sustaining treatment and organ donation. During conversations the previous year, he said that donating organs to help others would be a good thing to do. When faced with his sudden death, the family decided to respect his wishes.

Jung was born in Yeonggwang, South Jeolla Province, as the youngest of three siblings. He was known as someone who paid close attention to the people around him and maintained close relationships with friends and colleagues.

After graduating, he learned acrylic manufacturing and worked over 20 years producing display items used in large retail stores and commercial spaces. He remained in the same line of work for decades, taking pride in his steady craftsmanship.

On weekends, Jung played football with a local amateur club and maintained close ties with friends. He also volunteered his time on a regular basis with a neighborhood safety patrol.

In a farewell message, his older sister, Jung Soo-jin, said that she found the idea of life without him hard to imagine. She added that knowing her brother had helped save others through organ donation brought her some comfort.