'Corona Hero' 100-Year-Old Korean War Veteran Passes Away

'59.4 Billion Won Raised' Sir Tom Moore
Queen and Prime Minister Join in Mourning

Sir Tom Moore
Photo by Reuters Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] Sir Tom Moore, a 100-year-old British war veteran who raised 389 million pounds (about 59.4 billion won) despite physical difficulties to help COVID-19 medical staff, has died from coronavirus. It was two days after he was diagnosed and hospitalized on the 31st of last month.

Sir Moore's family announced in a statement on the 2nd (local time) that he passed away forever that morning while receiving treatment at a hospital in central England.

He gained attention last April before his 100th birthday by challenging himself to walk 100 laps in his backyard to raise funds for the UK's National Health Service (NHS).

He later became known as the UK's "corona hero." Queen Elizabeth II awarded him a knighthood, and the UK Ministry of Defence appointed him honorary colonel.

Tributes continued following the news of Sir Moore's passing. The Queen mourned, saying, "We recognize the inspiration he provided to the entire country and others around the world." Prime Minister Boris Johnson said, "He was a hero in the literal sense of the word," adding, "During the dark days of World War II, he fought for freedom, and in the deepest crisis after the war, he united and encouraged us all."

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