Donations pour in for Korean War veteran caught shoplifting

By Jung Min-ho

This photo released by police shows a hand-written letter from a person offering help to a financially struggling Korean War veteran who was recently caught stealing food. Courtesy of Busanjin Police Station

Donations are pouring in for a financially struggling Korean War veteran who was caught stealing food.

According to police and officials at the Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs on Monday, more than 20 people have so far contacted them to ask about ways to help the man who is now in his late 80s. Some offered cash, while others sent food and other daily necessities.

They decided to lend a helping hand and joined in following the news that the veteran was being investigated for allegedly stealing several bottles of sesame oil, canned fish and other food products worth 83,000 won ($64) between April and May.

After being apprehended, he immediately apologized and said he did so because he did not have enough money to buy food, police explained.

After serving in the war, the veteran worked as a fisherman for 30 years. Reportedly, he has two children he has lost contact with, and his wife died some years ago.

In a hand-written letter sent to the Busanjin Police Station, a person who only identified themself as “a citizen of Korea” said the veteran's story left them heartbroken.

“My heart aches for this hero of the Korean War that no one should ever forget,” they wrote. “I can't believe that one of those who deserve the very best has been living a lonely life at the furthest shadowy corner of our society, which compelled me to do something for them as one of their descendants living on the land, for which they shed blood and sweat and sacrificed their youth.”

The package containing the letter also included some food and money, according to police.

A ministry official told The Korea Times that his eligibility for additional support as a veteran is now under review.

The total government pension he receives, including the basic pension given to all seniors, is a little more than 800,000 won per month ― an amount that may not meet the condition of becoming a recipient of the benefits under the National Basic Living Security Act.

The official said the ministry was unaware of his difficulties because he had not been on the recipient list. He said checking the list is the only legally allowed way for the ministry to find out who is suffering financial hardship.

The ministry has also been helping him check whether he is eligible to receive any additional state benefits.

“As we coordinate events this month to remember and honor the sacrifice of such heroes, it was regretful news,” the official said. “We will look into whether we can make improvements in our checking system.”