[WEEKENDER] Samsung Guide Dog School marks 33 years of changing lives

The Samsung Guide Dog School, celebrating its 33rd anniversary this year, holds the distinction of being Korea's first guide dog training institution and the world's sole guide dog school operated by a single corporation. Funded entirely by Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance, the school was founded in 1993 by the late Samsung Group Chairman, Lee Kun-hee, as part of initiatives to promote greater understanding and acceptance of individuals with disabilities. At the time, corporate involvement in guide dog training was unprecedented on a global scale.

In 1999, the school achieved full membership in the International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF) and subsequently hosted the organization's general assembly in Korea. Lee's contributions were recognized by the federation the same year, earning him an honor for his efforts to raise awareness about people with disabilities.

From its inception, the school has been dedicated to providing more than 320 guide dogs to visually impaired individuals at no cost. Beyond training guide dogs, the institution also imparts essential skills to visually impaired partners to ensure they can fully benefit from their new companions.