Public Activities
Asan Foundation announcing at a press conference that it was established to help our society's less fortunate neighbors. (1977)
The Asan Social Welfare Foundation
Now, our country no longer worries about hunger. It has achieved economic prosperity that meet the level of other countries.
However, there still are marginalized people, and those struggling with poverty and illness.
Reflecting on the difficult times, Asan felt it was time to share the company's profits. On July 1, 1977, he established the Asan Foundation and generously contributed half of Hyundai Engineering & Construction's shares.
Asan built general hospitals in rural areas and supported social welfare organizations. Scholarships were also provided to talented individuals facing financial difficulties.
It all began with the belief that happiness should be shared together.
Healthcare Business
In July 1978, Asan Hospital opened in Jeongeup, Jeollabuk-do. It was a general hospital established in five rural areas that severely lacked medical facilities. This was in line with Asan's intention to break the cycle of disease and poverty.
In 1989, Seoul Asan Hospital opened its doors. It was a patient-centered hospital that laid the groundwork for advanced medicine. People from all over the world came to learn about advanced medicine offered by Seoul Asan Hospital.
However, Asan emphasized that “curing with a true heart” is more important.
The purpose of establishing hospitals was to build a welfare society
where all citizens can live well together. “
In 2008, with a total of eight hospitals, Asan Hospitals continue to fulfill Asan's vision of providing warm "medical welfare.
At the opening reception of Seoul Asan Hospital. (From left) Director Lee Moon-ho, President of the Korean Red Cross, Asan, and Seoul National University President Cho Wan-kyu (1989)
Asan having a conversation with attendees at the "Handbook of Disability Welfare" publication ceremony (1982).
Academic Research Support Project
Despite steady economic growth, there was a lack of outreach to marginalized neighbors.
Asan stepped forward. He built buildings and provided necessary items to help socially vulnerable individuals stand tall and live dignified lives. He also provided vehicles for the disabled, elderly, and Hansen's disease patients.
Working together to find happiness in life. Asan's legacy will transcend generations.
“ Only what's in my wallet is mine.
The rest belongs to society and the country. ”
From a 1980 media interview
The 3rd Asan Foundation Research Professors' Roundtable. The Foundation supports research activities reflecting societal changes and academic demands (1979).
Social Welfare Support Project
Continuous academic research is the driving force behind societal progress. However, there was a shortage of talent and research funds. While the Government devised measures, they fell short.
Let's balance the development of economics
and social culture by supporting academic research in various fields. “
Asan started by supporting the natural sciences, which could underpin economic development, and then expanded support to the humanities and social sciences.
Through annual symposiums and support for research papers and publications, we continue to establish milestones for our society that align with Asan's vision of seeking a better society.
ASAN Award, ASAN Award in Medicine
For those who took the lead in showing love to their neighbors, those who practiced exceptional filial duties. These were what served as a mirror in creating the "ASAN Award."
Established in 1989, the ASAN Award has been awarded to individuals in various fields, from filial individuals to volunteer organizations. Expanded to eight categories, it promotes the loving and volunteering spirit. Since 2008, the ASAN Award in Medicine has been established to encourage medical professionals who have achieved outstanding contributions to human health.
In line with its purpose, the ASAN Award is awarded annually on November 25th, Asan's birthday, while the ASAN Award in Medicine is awarded on March 21st, the anniversary of his passing.
Asan with award recipients at the 6th Asan Filial Award ceremony. (From left: Kim Jong-eun, Jung Moon-soo, Ko Du-sim, Asan, Choi Bul-am, Sung Kyu-tak, Park Myung-yong, 1996).
The graduation ceremony for Asan scholarship recipients. Asan considered "nurturing talent to be the most rewarding endeavor" (1979).
Scholarships
Asan, who worked in the farm while his peers studied at school, knew the pain of bone-chilling poverty and the agony of being unable to study.
He alleviated that sorrow through extensive scholarship programs. From financially disadvantaged students to outstanding talents, from middle school students to graduate students, with Asan's support, they could relive their once abandoned dream.
Asan provided more than just scholarships. He created a self-governing body group for the scholarship recipients' named "Jeongdamhoe." Here, they could learn a community spirit and experience life of giving back through summer volunteer activities in rural areas.
Sharing lead to more sharing, growing into new dreams and bearing countless fruits.