Father of Three Who Saved Kindergarteners from Drowning Saves Four Lives Through Organ Donation

A man in his 50s who once saved kindergarteners from drowning has passed away, gifting a new life to four people through organ donation.
According to the Korea Organ Donation Agency on Tuesday (June 30), Kim Sang-hyun (58) donated his liver, lungs, and both kidneys to four patients at Wonkwang University Hospital on the 18th of this month.
Born in Namwon, North Jeolla Province, Kim worked as a middle and high school physical education teacher for nearly 20 years and continued to work as a tennis instructor until recently after retiring from teaching.
Kim was known for always stepping forward to help neighbors in danger.
In 2012, he received a commendation from the Commissioner of the Jeonbuk Provincial Police Agency for rescuing three kindergarteners who had fallen into a stream in Jeonju, North Jeolla Province.
According to media reports at the time, Kim said, "I hesitated for a split second when I saw the children, but I found myself jumping into the water before I knew it," adding, "Anyone would have done the same."
At home, Kim was always a cheerful and affectionate father to his three daughters.
His daughters recalled that they would go hiking with their family on weekends and grew up visiting tennis courts with their father since they were young.
Kim was suddenly diagnosed with a brain tumor last month.
His condition deteriorated rapidly, and he eventually fell into a brain-dead state after about a month.
Remembering Kim's character of always putting others first, his family decided to proceed with organ donation.
His eldest daughter expressed her heartfelt feelings, saying, "I hope you are free in heaven to do everything you want and play sports to your heart's content. I am sorry that I feel I could not be a better daughter to you. Thank you."
(Photo: Yonhap News/Courtesy of Korea Organ Donation Agency)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.