[WEEKENDER] Samsung Guide Dog School marks 33 years of changing lives
Samsung Guide Dog School, which marks its 33rd anniversary this year, is Korea’s first guide dog training institution and the world’s only guide dog school operated by a single corporation, with its operations fully funded by Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance. The school was established in September 1993 by late Samsung Group Chairman Lee Kun-hee as part of efforts to foster greater understanding…
![[WEEKENDER] Samsung Guide Dog School marks 33 years of changing lives](/img/19713278)
Samsung Guide Dog School, Korea's pioneering institution in guide dog training, is celebrating its 33rd anniversary this year. Established in 1993 by the late Lee Kun-hee, former chairman of Samsung Group, the school operates exclusively under the auspices of Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance. This unique model, funded wholly by the corporation, marked a groundbreaking move in global corporate involvement in guide dog training.
In 1999, the school achieved a significant milestone by becoming a full member of the International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF). This recognition was further solidified when the school hosted the IGDF general assembly in Korea the following year. Lee Kun-hee's dedication to raising awareness about people with disabilities was acknowledged by the federation in 2002, earning him their honor.
The school's impact is profound and far-reaching. Since its inception, it has produced over 320 guide dogs, all provided to visually impaired individuals at no cost. The school's mission extends beyond merely raising and training dogs; it also educates visually impaired partners on how to effectively utilize their guide dogs in daily life. This comprehensive approach has undoubtedly changed countless lives since the school's founding in 1993.
Written by urgent.news from The Korea Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
