Yang O-bong, President of Jeonbuk National University (JBNU), was appointed a 'Life Ambassador' by Prime Minister Kim Min-seok.

On April 24, President Yang attended the appointment ceremony at the 'Cheonmyeong Keeper' launch event held at Cheonggye Plaza in Seoul, received the appointment certificate, and was formally named a Life Ambassador. The event served as the starting point for a nationwide project to promote suicide prevention and spread a culture of respect for life.

'Life Ambassadors' serve as suicide prevention public ambassadors. They are figures who disseminate messages of respect for life across all sectors of society and convey the need for solidarity and attention to those experiencing isolation and exclusion. In particular, they play a role in spreading the social message 'You are not alone' by improving awareness and fostering empathy in everyday life.

JBNU has been recognized as a model university for student suicide prevention, for example by establishing and operating a top-tier 'Happy Dream Center'.

President Yang plans to promote the value of respect for life through various programs involving both university members and collaborations with the local community. Alongside region-wide awareness-raising activities centered on the university, he intends to practically expand suicide prevention efforts through participatory programs targeting young people and vulnerable local populations.

Yang O-bong said, "Respect for life is the most fundamental value our society must practice together," adding, "Based on the university's educational and research capabilities, I will work closely with the local community to help create a society in which no one is isolated." He added, "As small acts of care and solidarity can save a life, I will continue efforts to ensure that a culture of respect for life spreads naturally in everyday life."

Meanwhile, the government-led 'Cheonmyeong Keeper Project' aims to reduce suicide deaths by more than 1,000 by 2026. It is intended to move away from policy-centered responses and toward a public participation-based practical model. President Yang's appointment is expected to expand JBNU's social responsibility and serve as an opportunity to promote a culture of respect for life in cooperation with the local community.