Health ministry honors 132 sharing award winners, from 49-year volunteers to a 2.23 trillion won donor

The health ministry said Thursday it honored 132 people and organizations at the 15th Korea Sharing Awards, recognizing contributions that range from half a century of volunteer work to 2.23 trillion won ($1.66 billion) in corporate donations.

The ministry, which co-hosted the ceremony with broadcaster KBS and the Community Chest of Korea, awarded the top corporate honor, a presidential citation, to Shinhan Financial Group for its support of crisis-hit households through public-private partnerships, including its "Just Give" program, and about 2.23 trillion won in donations.

The oldest recipient and the highest individual honoree was Yang Mi-ae, 85, who received the Order of National Merit, Camellia Medal. She has volunteered for 49 years at a rehabilitation center for people with disabilities in Jinhae, assisting with vocational training for people with severe disabilities and making check-in calls to people with disabilities living alone.

"I am deeply grateful for the warm sharing and dedication of everyone receiving an award today," said Hyun Soo-yup, the ministry's first vice minister, at the ceremony. "Sharing that begins with one person spreads to neighbors and the local community, bringing warm change to our society as a whole."

Hyun also said the government would keep working to ensure that people who practice sharing are respected socially and that anyone can easily take part in giving in daily life. He was among about 350 people at the event, which included medal recipients and their families.

The ceremony is scheduled to be broadcast on KBS 1TV on Nov. 28 from 3:10 p.m. to 5 p.m.