Gone Home: Suk-Won Kim, Past Chairman, WSF
It is with deep sadness that the Foundation learned today of the passing of Suk-Won Kim, Past Chair of the World Scout Foundation, on 26 August, after a short illness. A committed Scout and active supporter of Scouting throughout his life, he greatly contributed to the growth and development of Scouting in the Republic of Korea, the Asia-Pacific Region and worldwide.
Suk-Won Kim became a member of the World Baden-Powell Fellowship in 1982 and joined the Foundation Board in 1998, becoming Chair of the World Scout Foundation from 2000 until 2003.
"This was a highlight of my life as I was privileged to work with dedicated Scout leaders from all over the world, gaining invaluable insights and forming what have become enduring friendships“
Suk-Won Kim first joined the Scouts in high school and became actively involved in 1981 when he was elected as a Vice-President of the Korea Scout Association. He was then President of the Korea Scout Association from 1982 to 1992 and established the Korea Scout Foundation (KSF) in 1983 to help support the Korea Scout Association financially. He served as the KSF President from 1992. One of the greatest moments of his Scouting career was as Camp Chief of the 17th World Scout Jamboree which was hosted in Korea in 1991. “The whole world showed keen interest in the Jamboree, and I believe it was a turning point for Korea’s Scouting movement“, he said.
In 1995, Suk-Won Kim was awarded the Bronze Wolf by the World Scout Committee, for exceptional services to the World Scout Movement.
"Indeed, Scouting values have been integral to my achievements in life. The foundation of the future is in young people with good character and I believe that Scouting is the best way to develop this character. I am therefore committed and actively working to enable all youth to have access to and benefit from the advantages Scouting offers.“
The World Scout Foundation joins the Korea Scouts Association, and indeed Scouts worldwide, in extending our sincere condolences to the family of the late Chairman Kim.
A committed, passionate and great Scout has Gone Home.