Actor Choi Jae-won (55), who has dedicated 25 years to volunteering for elder abuse prevention, has been awarded the first Presidential Commendation by President Lee Jae-myung.
Since 2010, Choi Jae-won has served as an ambassador for the Ministry of Health and Welfare's campaign against elder abuse and recently received the Presidential Commendation. Choi expressed his gratitude, saying, "It's a great honor for my family. I love my colleagues who have been with me for the past 15 years and my family."
The commendation recognizes Choi's active participation in education for elder protection professionals and campaigns to raise awareness about the seriousness of elder abuse. In 2012, he was also awarded a commendation by the Minister of Health and Welfare for his contributions to protecting the rights of the elderly.
Choi Jae-won became widely popular as 'Conscience Man' through his segment 'Choi Jae-won's Conscience Pursuit' on KBS's 'Good Country Movement Headquarters' since 2001.
True to his nickname, Choi has been regularly donating to over 20 organizations, recording audiobooks for the hearing impaired, delivering coal to underprivileged communities, and providing kimchi-making services for elderly living alone for more than 20 years. In 2003, Choi also received a Presidential Commendation on Taxpayer's Day for his cooperation with tax administration.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)