[NewsSpace=JeongYoung Kim] Samsung's Guide Dog School, the world's first and only corporate-run guide dog school, celebrated its 30th anniversary on September 19, 2023.
The school was founded by the late Lee Kun-hee, Samsung's former chairman, in 1993. Lee was a visionary leader who believed that the company had a responsibility to give back to society. He also believed that guide dogs could help improve the lives of people with disabilities and raise awareness about the importance of inclusion.
In the early days, the school faced skepticism and criticism. However, Lee's commitment to the program never wavered. Today, the school has placed over 280 guide dogs with people with vision loss.
At the anniversary ceremony, Samsung was presented with a plaque of appreciation from the International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF). The school also announced that it had expanded its kennels to accommodate more dogs.
"The success of the Samsung Guide Dog Program is a testament to the vision and commitment of Lee Kun-hee," said William Thornton, chairman of the IGDF. "The school has made a significant contribution to the lives of people with vision loss, and it is a model for other corporations around the world."