President Nam Pyo Suh announced on January 12 that Yo Seob Kim, 21, from the Department of Material Science, is to be awarded with a Certificate of Commendation for his brave deed in saving a civilian near Suwon Station last November at the sacrifice of his own right hand. 

On November 25, Kim was standing in front of Suwon Station when he witnessed two civilians in a heated fight. The fight reached its climax when one of them suddenly drew out a weapon against the other. Kim quickly blocked the weapon with his bare hands, but was seriously injured in the process: the nerves in the back of his right hand were severed. The paramedics immediately brought him to the nearest orthopedic in Suwon where he remains hospitalized.

Upon hearing the news, President Suh visited the hospital and commended Kim for his actions. He also promised him payment from the school for his hospital and rehabilitation bills.

“His chivalry and selflessness in rescuing a civilian in danger glorified our school values,” said President Suh. “I hope he maintains this righteous attitude and warm heart he has for society. I have no doubt that he will continue to grow as a talented individual at KAIST.”

After President Suh returned to KAIST, he and the Board of Directors opened the Committee of Student Sanction and reached a decision to award Kim a Certificate of Commendation for the honor his righteous actions brought to the school. Kim’s courageous act has inspired the school as well. His Business and Management classmates, who previously raised 2.35 million Korean Won through selling socks and scarves, cleaning dormitories and other business ideas, willingly donated their profits for Kim’s treatment and his speedy recovery. Local residents too are contributing by organizing donation drives in front of their stores.

“I thank the school for the award though I feel embarrassed by the much undeserved praise; I only did what anyone should have done. I’m still in the process of rehabilitating but after my return to KAIST, I will devote my time and effort to academics again,” commented Kim.