In a season when acts of giving brighten an often harsh world, Jeonbuk National University (JBNU) (President Yang O-bong) has once again received a long-standing act of generosity. This year marks the 21st consecutive year of donations from Kim Hyeong-nyeon, Director of Incheon Central Animal Hospital (College of Veterinary Medicine, Class of '67), made with the single purpose of supporting the education of future generations.

This year Mr. Kim again donated 10 million won to JBNU as a development fund. Over 21 years, his cumulative donations amount to 410 million won. In recognition of this long-standing generosity, President Yang O-bong invited Mr. Kim to the university on the 18th to hold a donation ceremony and presented a plaque of appreciation.

Mr. Kim's donations began in 2003. After deciding he wanted to give back to the students what he had received while attending JBNU's College of Veterinary Medicine, he has acted on a desire to have a positive influence on students who work hard in difficult circumstances.

The fund, which began with an initial 20 million won, varied from year to year depending on his circumstances, but it has continued without interruption for more than 20 years. Although he experienced ups and downs in difficult times, he was determined to keep the promise he made to his alma mater and its students.

Now, as an elderly veterinarian, he has one wish: that his son, who became a veterinarian following his father's footsteps, will continue his legacy of ongoing donations.

Mr. Kim said, 'Giving back to our juniors what I received from the university is an indescribable joy and reward as an alumnus,' and added, 'I hope that the students who receive scholarships will, in time, return funds to support their own juniors at our alma mater, continuing this beautiful influence.'

Meanwhile, after graduating from university, Mr. Kim worked for a pharmaceutical company and has operated the Central Animal Hospital in Incheon since 1983.

JBNU has carefully accumulated Mr. Kim's long-term donations and established the 'Kim Hyeong-nyeon Scholarship,' awarding scholarships annually to students in the College of Veterinary Medicine. To honor and remember his noble intention, the advanced lecture room on the Iksan Specialized Campus, where the College of Veterinary Medicine is located, has been named 'Kim Hyeong-nyeon Hall.'