Catholic Archdiocese of Seoul: "Cardinal Jeong Jin-seok Refuses Life-Sustaining Treatment... Pledges Organ and Cornea Donation"

Cardinal Jeong Jin-seok. / Photo by Asia Economy

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwan-joo] Cardinal Jeong Jin-seok (90), who is currently hospitalized due to recent health deterioration, is reported to have refused life-sustaining treatment and pledged organ donation in the event of brain death, as well as posthumous corneal donation.

The Catholic Archdiocese of Seoul released a statement on the 28th, saying, "Cardinal Jeong has long wanted to prepare well for his death due to old age, and on September 27, 2018, he personally signed an advance medical directive refusing life-sustaining treatment."

They added, "In 2006, he requested the medical staff to carry out organ donation in the event of brain death and corneal donation after death, which he had pledged. If organ donation is ineffective due to age, he personally wrote in the advance directive to donate at least his eyes for research purposes."

Furthermore, "On February 25, he designated that the remaining balance in his bank account be donated to Myeongdong Bapjip and children's faith education, among others, which he personally specified." Myeongdong Bapjip is a free meal service operated by the Seoul Archdiocese.

The Seoul Archdiocese stated, "We are closely monitoring Cardinal Jeong's condition and are fully prepared for any eventuality," adding, "Since direct visits are difficult due to COVID-19, we ask for many prayers for Cardinal Jeong."

Cardinal Jeong was admitted to Seoul St. Mary's Hospital on the 21st of this month due to worsening symptoms and is currently receiving treatment.

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