A 76-year-old marathoner runs on generosity

“My greatest wish in life is to live to be 100 years old, like running an ultra-marathon of 100 kilometers—staying healthy, earning a living, and helping those in need,” says Kim Ki-joon, a 76-year-old resident of Whygwan, Chilgok county, North Gyeongsang Province.

Kim is not only an avid marathon runner, having completed more than 50 full-course marathons over the past 35 years, but also a steadfast advocate for his neighbors in need. Despite modest means, he has committed to helping others, which has sustained him for even longer than his love of running.

From 1984, during his tenure as a civil servant in Chilgok County, until his retirement in 2005, Kim donated 30 percent of his salary to local children in need. Reflecting on the beginning of his journey, he recalled, “I was working on underground water construction in a village when I saw a young girl—head of her household—cowering in a field. I felt sorry for her and gave her the items I had received as wages that day,” he told The Dong-A Ilbo on Thursday.

“Seeing the child’s happiness made me smile, but it also reminded me of my own difficult and painful times,” Kim said. “From that day on, I promised myself to always set aside a small portion of what I have and share it with neighbors in need.” After retiring, Kim became a farmer and continued his generosity, donating homegrown peaches, plums, radishes, and other produce to those less fortunate. His dedication to giving has formed lifelong connections.

“The first girl I helped is now a housewife in her 40s,” he said with a laugh. “We call each other father and daughter and live like family. Today, I have more than 50 sons and daughters—people I have bonded with through the spirit of sharing.”


칠곡=명민준 mmj86@donga.com