On March 15, Banteay Prieb had a special guest from Korea. Her Excellency Kim Jung-sook, First Lady of the Republic of Korea, visited Banteay Prieb. It coincided with the visit of His Excellency the President of the Republic of Korea, Moon Jae-in, to Cambodia.
The tour of Banteay Prieb started in the office where Korea Delegate to the Cambodian mission, Fr In-don Oh SJ, explained the history of Banteay Prieb showing the photographs displayed on the wall.
“I was so impressed that she listened very carefully to the history and projects of Banteay Prieb,” said Shin Hyeyoung, a Korean volunteer.
Fr Oh continued the tour, showing her the mechanic, electronics and sewing sections, the classrooms, and production house for wood carvings. In the sewing section, the First Lady had a conversation with one of the teachers, Doeun Sokeun, and told her: “I like the colour and design of the products. I want to give one as a gift to my grandson and tell him about you.”
Afterwards, the First Lady had a short talk with some volunteers and guests. Hyeyoung told her the story of a disabled student who practises walking every day to make his legs stronger and even when the weather is very hot. The First Lady said, “The student is hope and if we do our best like this student does, we will be able to make a difference”.
The students and staff were pleased to meet the First Lady and were encouraged by her visit. The members of Banteay Prieb hope that the visit will have very positive effects for the centre.
“I was very excited to meet the First Lady of the Republic of Korea, which is my dream country. During her visit, I was impressed by her democratic way of speaking and her down-to-earth personality. She approached us local staff as a family and said hello to most of us. Her friendly approach actually shocked me in a good way. She also showed a deep interest for disabled people, and that was also very touching,” said School President Chrek Vuthda.
Fr Ingun Kang SJ said, “It was a new experience for me to see this special person heading towards the venue amidst strict security. I was delighted to see her speaking freely with others even though there had been a plan prepared for her. I think her visit will help Banteay Prieb, considering her influence.”
Hyeyoung added, “I also hope that Banteay Prieb can become known more outside as well as within Cambodia because of her visit. More and more people can then pay attention to persons with disabilities in Cambodia and ensure their well-being.”
Sol Lee is a Banteay Prieb volunteer since March 2018. Originally from Korea, she majored in English and Business at Sogang University. She is the editor of Banteay Prieb’s quarterly newsletter.