Selection of Winners for the 16th Donguibogam Award in Sancheong-gun

Academic Division: Lee Hye-jung, Professor at Kyung Hee University College of Korean Medicine; Social Service: Hwang Man-gi, Director of Seocho Ainuri Korean Medicine Clinic

Professor Lee Hye-jung, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University (Photo by Sancheong-gun)

[Asia Economy Yeongnam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Choi Soon-kyung] The Gyeongnam Sancheong Oriental Herbal Medicine Festival Committee announced on the 22nd that the recipients of the 16th Donguibogam Award are Professor Lee Hye-jung of Kyung Hee University College of Korean Medicine in the academic category and Director Hwang Man-gi of Seocho Ainuri Korean Medicine Clinic in the social service category.

Professor Lee Hye-jung (65), the academic award recipient, is a figure who has devoted her life to nurturing research personnel related to Korean medicine, including establishing the first laboratory for basic research on acupuncture and meridian studies.

Professor Lee was recognized for laying the foundation for scientific research in Korean medicine by participating in long-term government projects and major domestic and international studies such as those by the U.S. National Institutes of Health, producing research achievements through managing a scientific research team on acupuncture and meridians, and contributing to the training of future scholars.

Professor Lee said, “This award is not just for me alone but is meant to encourage many frontline researchers who strive to clarify the scientific nature of Korean medicine and contribute to the advancement of Korean medical treatment techniques,” adding, “I am grateful for the encouragement given to researchers who have devoted their lives to nurturing future talents and enhancing research achievements through the Donguibogam Award.”

Director Hwang Man-gi (48), the social service award recipient, was highly evaluated for his steady volunteer work over about 26 years in education and medical fields for neighbors who are financially disadvantaged or socially marginalized.

Director Hwang Manki, Ainuri Korean Medicine Clinic

Since 2013, Director Hwang has been regularly visiting remote villages in Cambodia, Peru, Russia, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Myanmar, and other countries to carry out overseas Korean medicine medical volunteer activities, contributing to the globalization of Korean medicine, which led to his selection as an awardee.

Director Hwang said, “I never thought I would receive such a great award as someone who is still lacking a lot. I see this as encouragement and support for the small volunteer activities I have done so far,” adding, “I will continue to devote myself to volunteer work with a stronger sense of mission.”

The award ceremony is scheduled to be held on the stage of the opening ceremony of the 20th Sancheong Oriental Herbal Medicine Festival on September 25.

Each awardee will receive a prize of 5 million won and a plaque made by Park Chan-soo, holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property No. 108, wood carving master and director of the Sancheong Moga Museum.

The Donguibogam Award was established in 2004 to honor volunteers who have contributed to the promotion and development of Korean medicine and public health and who have practiced the medical spirit of Heo Jun, the author of the Donguibogam, and has continued since then.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.