"Having grown through the trust of the local community, I believe it is my duty to return the support I received to future talent."

Choi Cheol, Chief Medical Director of Jeonju 21st Century Hospital, who nurtured his dream of becoming a physician at Jeonbuk National University (JBNU) College of Medicine, has stepped forward to support the dreams of his juniors. He donated a development fund of 100 million won to his alma mater, JBNU, to pass the trust and love he received while caring for the health of local residents on to the next generation.

The JBNU Development Foundation presented a plaque of appreciation to Dr. Choi on October 6 in the President’s Office at University Headquarters. President Yang O-bong and other senior university officials attended the ceremony.

After graduating from the JBNU College of Medicine, Dr. Choi served as a clinical professor in the Department of Neurosurgery at JBNU Hospital and as an adjunct professor at Gunjang University. He currently serves as the Chief Medical Director of Jeonju 21st Century Hospital, a hospital specializing in joint and spinal care, where he works to improve community health through patient-centered, honest medical practice.

He decided to make this donation out of gratitude to the local community that trusted and supported the hospital. As the hospital has grown with the support of residents, he wanted to share its fruits with the talents who will lead the region’s future. He believed that supporting his alma mater, which dedicates itself to education and research, is a way to return the community’s love back to the community.

Dr. Choi said, "I wanted to return the support I received to the region’s future talent and academic development," adding, "I decided to donate to help create a virtuous cycle of community development by supporting the university’s education and research."

His donation is primarily directed toward students. He hopes that junior students who are pursuing their dreams will not miss educational opportunities due to financial difficulties and that they will be able to realize their potential in a better environment.

Dr. Choi said, "I hope the funds are used for scholarships, improvements to the educational environment, and other needs to enhance the university’s competitiveness so that students can concentrate on their studies without financial hardship," and added, "I hope this will serve as a solid stepping stone for the students who will lead the future and as a foundation for cultivating outstanding regional talent."

President Yang O-bong said, "We deeply thank Dr. Choi for turning the love he received from the community into a gift for the growth of younger students and the university’s future," and added, "We will do our best to ensure that this generous intention is used meaningfully to support students’ studies and create a better educational environment."