HD Hyundai HeeMang Foundation, a charity unit of Korean shipbuilding giant HD Hyundai, announced it granted its first scholarships to the bereaved children of shipyard workers who died while working.
Three children were awarded college scholarships at a ceremony held Wednesday at the HD Hyundai Global R&D Center in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province.
Established last September following a 100 million won ($69,440) donation from HD Hyundai Chairman Kwon Oh-gap, the foundation aims to support the bereaved families of workers who died due to serious accidents in Korea's shipbuilding industry.
In addition to the scholarship, which provides up to 4 million won per semester, the foundation offers programs to support families' livelihoods and provide legal assistance.
Nearly 20 workers died at shipyards across Korea last year, despite shipbuilders' increasing efforts to ensure safety.
“Our foundation will continue to support bereaved families who have lost a loved one in a serious accident, helping them prepare for the future without losing hope despite financial challenges,” said Lee Ki-kweon, chairman of the foundation and former labor minister.
“We will work on various support programs that can substantially help them, carefully considering their difficulties.”
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