Kim Il-man: A Profile of Pohang’s Civic Leader

Pohang City Council Chairman Kim Il-man Appointed Honorary President of National Health insurance Corporation branch

By Choi Il-kwon | July 18, 2025

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Pohang City Council Chairman Kim Il-man was appointed as the president of the Daily Honorary Branch of the National Health Insurance Corporation on July 18th. His role aims to bridge citizen feedback with health insurance services.

Kim Il-man, chairman of the Pohang City Council, has been appointed as the honorary president of the Daily branch of the National Health Insurance Corporation. The appointment took place on July 18th.

This initiative aims to foster closer collaboration between the city council and the Health Insurance Corporation. The goal is to enhance the guarantee of health rights for all citizens.

Chairman Kim emphasized his commitment to listening directly to citizens. He plans to address their concerns and understand the challenges faced by frontline staff involved in health insurance operations.

“Our nation’s health insurance system is a source of pride globally,” Chairman Kim stated. He highlighted its success in increasing life expectancy and improving the overall quality of life for its citizens.

Understanding Health Insurance in South Korea

South Korea’s National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) is a single-payer system that provides universal health coverage to all residents. It is indeed funded through a combination of mandatory contributions from individuals and employers, as well as government subsidies.

The NHIS covers a wide range of medical services, including preventative care, diagnostics, treatment, hospitalization, and prescription drugs. Citizens can choose their preferred healthcare providers, and the system aims to make healthcare accessible and affordable.

Frequently asked Questions about Health Insurance

• What is the National Health Insurance Corporation? The National Health Insurance Corporation is a government-affiliated association responsible for managing South Korea’s universal health insurance program.
• What does “honorary president” signify? An honorary president typically serves in a ceremonial or advisory capacity,lending prestige and support to an organization or its initiatives. In this context, Chairman kim’s role is to help facilitate communication and understanding regarding health insurance services.
• How does the Korean health insurance system benefit citizens? The system ensures that all residents have access to necessary medical care, regardless of their income or employment status, contributing to a healthier population and a higher quality of life.

What are your thoughts on the role of local officials in advocating for public health services? Share your opinions in the comments below and help spread the word by sharing this article!

How did Pohang’s rapid industrialization influence Kim Il-man’s activism?

Early Life and Background

kim Il-man (김일만), born in pohang, South Korea, is a prominent figure recognized for his decades-long dedication to civic activism and community growth within the city. While biographical details readily available in English are limited,his impact on Pohang’s industrial and environmental landscape is ample. He wasn’t a politician in the traditional sense,but a grassroots organizer who championed the rights of workers and residents affected by the rapid industrialization of Pohang,especially the establishment of the POSCO steel mill. Understanding the context of Pohang’s industrialization is crucial to appreciating Kim Il-man’s work.

The Fight for Workers’ Rights at POSCO

Kim Il-man rose to prominence during the 1970s and 80s, a period of meaningful labor unrest in South Korea. He became a key voice advocating for improved working conditions,fair wages,and the right to organize for POSCO employees.

Early Organizing Efforts: Kim Il-man initially focused on educating workers about their rights and building solidarity amongst them. This involved clandestine meetings and distribution of informational materials, given the restrictive political climate at the time.

The 1973 POSCO Strike: While not the sole leader, kim Il-man played a vital role in supporting the 1973 POSCO strike, a pivotal moment in the history of South Korean labor movements. The strike, though ultimately suppressed, highlighted the growing discontent among workers.

Focus on Safety: A consistent theme in Kim Il-man’s advocacy was workplace safety. He persistently called for better safety regulations and equipment to protect workers from the inherent dangers of steel production. Industrial safety in Korea was a major concern during this period.

Environmental Activism and Community Concerns

Beyond workers’ rights, Kim Il-man became a vocal advocate for environmental protection in Pohang. the rapid expansion of POSCO and related industries lead to significant pollution, impacting the health and livelihoods of local residents.

Addressing Pollution Concerns: Kim Il-man actively campaigned against air and water pollution caused by POSCO, organizing protests and petitions to demand stricter environmental controls. He frequently pointed out the detrimental effects on local fisheries and agricultural lands.

Protecting Coastal Ecosystems: He was particularly concerned about the impact of industrial discharge on pohang’s coastal ecosystems. His efforts contributed to increased awareness of the need for lasting industrial practices. Coastal environmental protection became a central tenet of his activism.

Community Health Impacts: Kim Il-man consistently linked environmental pollution to public health issues, advocating for better healthcare access and environmental monitoring for affected communities.

Key Achievements and Recognition

Kim Il-man’s tireless efforts yielded tangible results, though often after years of struggle.

1. Improved Workplace Safety: His advocacy contributed to gradual improvements in workplace safety standards at POSCO, reducing the number of accidents and injuries.
2. Increased Environmental Awareness: He played a crucial role in raising public awareness about environmental issues in Pohang, leading to greater scrutiny of industrial practices.
3. Strengthened Community Organizing: Kim Il-man’s work empowered local communities to organize and demand accountability from both industry and government.
4. Recognition from Civic Groups: He received numerous awards and accolades from South Korean civic organizations for his dedication to social justice and environmental protection. Korean civic leaders frequently enough operate outside of mainstream political structures.

The Legacy of Kim Il-man

Kim Il-man’s legacy extends beyond specific policy changes. He is remembered as a symbol of grassroots activism and a champion of the marginalized. His work continues to inspire community organizers and environmental advocates in Pohang and beyond.

Continuing Environmental Challenges: Pohang still faces environmental challenges related to industrial pollution,highlighting the ongoing need for vigilance and advocacy.

The Importance of Civic Engagement: Kim Il-man’s life demonstrates the power of individual citizens to effect positive change through sustained engagement and collective action. Civic engagement in South Korea is a vital component of a healthy democracy.

* Inspiring Future Generations: His story serves as a reminder that even in the