Middle School Student Who Died While Rescuing Friends in a Reservoir Designated as 'Heroic Citizen'

A middle school student in Daegu, who tragically lost his life while trying to rescue friends from drowning, has been officially designated as a 'Heroic Citizen.'

On the 16th, the Dalsung-gun district announced that a middle school student, referred to as A (age 13), who lost his life in the process of rescuing friends who had fallen into the water, has been officially recognized as 'Heroic Citizen.'

On January 13, at approximately 5:19 PM, A was playing on the ice of the Seojae Reservoir in Dasa-eup when he bravely rescued three out of five friends who had fallen into the water.

While trying to save the last friend along with another companion, A fell into the water and ultimately was unable to resurface.

Dalsung-gun is honoring A's courageous actions by submitting a claim to the Ministry of Health and Welfare for the designation as 'Heroic Citizen' and also officially recognizing him as a 'Righteous Citizen of Daegu.'

On the 16th, the Ministry of Health and Welfare officially designated A as a 'Heroic Citizen.'

The 'Heroic Citizen designation' is an honor given to individuals who die while trying to save the lives or bodies of others, and according to the Act on Honors and Support for Heroic Citizens, the bereaved family is entitled to compensation as well as medical benefits and employment support.

Dalsung-gun announced plans to provide a separate compensation to the bereaved family based on the 'Dalsung-gun Ordinance on the Honor and Support for Righteous Citizens.'

Dalsung-gun Mayor Choi Jae-hoon expressed hope that "A's noble spirit of sacrifice will become a model for our society," adding, "The district will spare no effort in honoring and supporting righteous citizens."

Image source: Daegu Dalsung-gun Reservoir accident site / Photo provided by Dalsung-gun, Chrysanthemums placed at the Daegu Dalsung-gun Reservoir accident site / News1