[Interview] If it involves saving lives, count us in!

The brave individuals devoted to saving lives!

  Q. A brief intro of Hongcheon Firefighters
Hi, I’m the leader of the Hongcheon Firefighters. I’ve served in the special operations forces for the South Korean military. My name is Ma Jae-beom, I’ve been working as a firefighter for 10 years. A father of a 2-year-old and a 4-year-old. The second in command in our team is Choi Seong-soo. He’s been a rescuer for over 3 years, who strives to be a great husband and father as well. Our third member is Kim Min-sik who has been an emergency response team member for 2 years. He is physically and mentally tough. Our youngest member is Baik Gun-bin. He’s been a firefighter for over a year now. He is the speed demon among the lot.

 

Q. How did you learn about Trailwalker and what motivated you to take part in it?
I read an article about how it was the greatest charitable project of one’s life. I had to find out more about it. I was deeply moved and felt the need to take part. Being a firefighter, saving lives is what I do. And if there’s a different way, outside of my job to save more lives, I felt I had to take part. My colleagues felt the same way so we formed the Hongcheon Firefighters.  


Q. What made you choose this career path?
While I was in the military, a senior of mine recommended this job, as it involves helping people and feeling a sense of accomplishment. After I became a firefighter, I realized how much I take pride in what I do. The feeling I get by doing what I do is indescribable.

Hi, I’m Kim Min-sik. I’m a firefighter, but I’m also a nurse. I looked hard to find out what I can do to help more people using my expertise. And this was an easy choice. On the field, when we’re summoned, my expertise in nursing can be very important. So I’m grateful for what I can do.


Q. What’s the most rewarding/difficult part of the job?
Every time we answer a call, I feel like I’m making a difference. We work to ensure the safety of the people, and citizens show great appreciation for what we do. So putting on this uniform fills me with pride. But there are false alarms or prank calls. These are dangerous acts that can cost lives, as there are others that may have required our services. It’s very frustrating when that happens.


Q. Any special training to make sure your team completes the 100km race?
Physical fitness is a basic necessity in our line of duty. We are always trained and ready to take on challenges. We work out together by taking part in activities like mountain climbing. To make sure we can complete the race, we’re also conducting various team chemistry building exercises.

 

Q. You have an interesting fundraising activity, tell us more about it.  
We have some small events prepared in different parts of the 100km course, dedicated to donors. Personal letters, photos, and a special bracelet made using paracords. We want them to know they are a big part of the team and our efforts. We want to capture the beauty of Gangwondo and thank them.


Q. What is Oxfam Trailwalker to you?
Passionate and warm challenge that we must take on!