The disabled locksmith has been operating a 6.6-square-meter key shop for over 20 years in the student hall at Kyungil University (president Chung Hyun-tae). When he recently decided to donate his house and land worth 140 million won to the university, many people were deeply moved.

Shin Ki-hwan, who is hearing impaired, opened a key shop in 1994 when KIU moved from Hyomok-dong, Daegu to Gyeongsan. Since then, the university has allowed Mr. Shin to use the space for free. Mr. Shin now lives a happy and fulfilling life with his wife, making keys and carving seals in his small shop.

Earlier this year, Mr. Shin visited the university’s administration and said he wanted to donate his house (51.52���) and land (180���). The appraised value of the house is 67 million won and the land 69 million won. The total value amounts to 136 million won.

Mr. Shin had a sign language conversation with a volunteer through video. “Without the university’s support, I wouldn’t have enjoyed happiness as I do now,” signs Mr. Shin. “All I have is a house, but the love I have received from the university is greater than this house.” He also added, “Young people are now having a hard time getting a job, so I decided to donate the money in the hopes that our students become ones who can easily solve problems like a master key does.”

According to Mr. Shin’s request, the university completed the real estate donation process. However, he is allowed to live comfortably at his house for as long as he wishes. Also, Mr. and Mrs. Shin will have regular checkups for free and be awarded an honorary doctorate in social welfare.

“It is one of the university’s responsibilities to assist and protect the disadvantaged, including disabled people,” said President Chung. “The donated property will be used for the students, and the school will do everything we can to help the donator.”