Manhae Peace Prize
Manhae Peace Prize
The Manhae Prize is a series of awards in the following categories: Peace, Social Service, Academic Excellence, Art, Literature, and Buddhist Missionary Work awarded by The Society for the Promotion and Practice of Manhae's Thoughts in memory of Buddhist reformer and anti-Japanese independence activist Han Yong-un (1879–1944).
| Sl | Name | Country | Flag | Year | Awarded For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 33 | World Central Kitchen | United States | 2025 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 32 | Paul Kagame | Rwanda | 2024 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 31 | Save Ukrine | Ukraine | 2023 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 30 | Aiko Utsumi | Japan | 2022 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 29 | Daniel Barenboim | Argentina | 2021 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 28 | Samana Phothirak | Thailand | 2020 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 27 | Haruki Wada | Japan | 2019 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 26 | Cheng Yen | Taiwan | 2018 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 25 | White Helmets | Syria | 2017 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 24 | Lotus World | South Korea | 2016 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 23 | Cheongsu Sharing Practice Association | South Korea | 2015 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 22 | Alxis Dudden | United States | 2014 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 21 | House of Sharing | South Africa | 2013 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 20 | World Fellowship of Buddhists | Srilanka | 2012 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 19 | Bishop Kim Seong-su | South Korea | 2014 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 18 | Fethullah Gulen | Turkey | 2013 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 17 | Aki Ra | Cambodia | 2012 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 16 | Taekong Wolju | South Korea | 2012 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 15 | Anuradha Koirala | Nepal | 2011 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 14 | Dong Kurn Lee | South Africa | 2010 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 13 | Shirin Ebadi | Iran | 2009 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 12 | Lee Eo-ryeong | United Kingdom | 2008 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 11 | Omar Bongo Ondimba | Gabon | 2007 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 10 | Nambarin Enkhbayar | Mongolia | 2006 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 9 | Dalai Lama | China | 2005 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 8 | Nelson Mandela | South Africa | 2004 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 7 | Kim Dae-jung | South Korea | 2003 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 6 | Kang Won-ryong | North Korea | 2002 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 5 | Chung Ju-young | North Korea | 2001 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 4 | Stephen Winn Linton | North Korea | 2000 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 3 | Yoon Jeong-ok | South Korea | 1999 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 2 | Kim Soon-kwon | South Korea | 1998 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. | |
| 1 | Cho Young-sik | South Korea | 1997 | for promoting freedom, equality, and peace across all national, racial, and religious boundaries. |
Manhae Peace Prize Laureates (2030 ~ 2021)
World Central Kitchen
29th Manhae Peace Prize 2025
World Central Kitchen (WCK) is a non-profit organization dedicated to being a first responder that provides fresh, nourishing meals in the wake of humanitarian, climate, and community crises. Founded in 2010 by Spanish-American chef José Andrés following the devastating earthquake in Haiti, WCK operates on the belief that food is a universal human right and a powerful tool for hope and dignity.WCK's unique model is characterized by its rapid action and hyper-local focus. When a disaster strikes—such as a hurricane, earthquake, or war—their Relief Team quickly mobilizes to establish emergency kitchens. Unlike traditional aid that often distributes ready-to-eat meals, WCK's core mission is to cook hot, chef-prepared meals that are culturally appropriate for the affected community.A key part of the "WCK Way" is leveraging local resources. The organization partners with local chefs, restaurants, and food suppliers, injecting capital directly into the affected community's economy while ensuring the meals taste familiar and comforting. WCK has provided hundreds of millions of meals globally, responding to the war in Ukraine, Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico, and the recent crisis in Gaza. Beyond immediate relief, WCK also invests in resilience programs, including culinary training and supporting food producers, to foster long-term food security.
Paul Kagame
28th Manhae Peace Prize 2024
Paul Kagame is the current President of Rwanda and a towering, yet controversial, figure in modern African history. Born in 1957, his family fled to Uganda to escape anti-Tutsi pogroms, shaping his early life as a refugee and later a military officer in Yoweri Museveni's rebel army.Kagame's definitive role began in 1994 as the commander of the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF). He led the RPF forces that defeated the extremist Hutu regime, effectively ending the Rwandan Genocide against the Tutsi, an atrocity that killed over 800,000 people in approximately 100 days.Since assuming the presidency in 2000 (after serving as Vice President and Minister of Defence), Kagame has been hailed as the architect of Rwanda's dramatic transformation. His administration launched the ambitious Vision 2020 strategy, aiming to turn Rwanda into a knowledge-based, middle-income country. Under his leadership, Rwanda has achieved impressive results in economic growth, social development, health, education, and promoting gender equality. The capital, Kigali, has become a regional hub for technology and conferences.However, Kagame’s tenure is also defined by accusations of authoritarianism and suppression of political dissent. Human rights groups and critics cite a lack of political freedom, a controlled media environment, and constitutional changes that have allowed him to remain in power indefinitely, centralizing power around the RPF. His controversial foreign policy, particularly Rwanda’s involvement in the conflicts in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, also remains a point of international contention.Kagame is a leader whose legacy is a complex duality of unprecedented national revival and tightly controlled governance.
Save Ukrine
27th Manhae Peace Prize 2023
The Ukrainian NGO Save Ukraine (saveukraineua.org) stands at the forefront of the country's humanitarian response, with a unique focus on rescuing children and families directly impacted by the conflict. Since the full-scale invasion in 2022, its mission has become critical in addressing what is considered a war crime: the forced deportation of Ukrainian children.Core Missions and Impact
Save Ukraine’s primary operations are dedicated to three vital areas:Rescue of Deported Children: The organization is the only NGO consistently organizing complex and dangerous missions to return Ukrainian children illegally abducted and displaced to Russia and occupied territories. As of late 2025, they have successfully brought back over 980 children. These rescue efforts provide vital evidence of human rights abuses for international legal bodies.Frontline Evacuation: Operating with four specialized brigades and over 60 vehicles, Save Ukraine evacuates the most vulnerable populations—including children, families, and the elderly—from active combat zones. They have evacuated over 108,800 people from war-torn areas.Healing and Rehabilitation: The organization runs seven "Hope and Healing Centers" where rescued children and displaced families receive comprehensive support. This includes temporary housing, humanitarian aid, essential services, legal assistance, and crucial psychosocial and mental health recovery for up to three months. They also provide modular housing (FortHome) and run Community Centers to strengthen families and communities.By combining frontline rescue with long-term recovery, Save Ukraine is not just providing aid; it is actively working to restore the future of a generation subjected to the trauma of war and abduction.
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Aiko Utsumi
26th Manhae Peace Prize 2022
Dr. Aiko Utsumi is a distinguished Japanese historian, professor of humanities, and leading specialist on the sensitive and complex issues surrounding Japan's conduct during World War II, particularly concerning prisoners of war (POWs) and the plight of colonial subjects. Formerly a professor at Keisen University in Tokyo, her work has been instrumental in confronting challenging aspects of modern Japanese history and its relationship with other Asian nations.Focus of Research
Dr. Utsumi's research is noted for its rigorous focus on documentation and deep moral inquiry into Japan's wartime policies. Her most influential areas of study include:POW Treatment: She is one of Japan's foremost experts on the treatment of Allied POWs by the Imperial Japanese Army, providing detailed analysis of the indifference and irresponsibility that led to horrific abuses and atrocities.Korean B and C Class War Criminals: A significant portion of her work addresses the complex injustice faced by colonized peoples, particularly Koreans, who were forced to serve in the Japanese military and subsequently convicted by Allied forces as Class B and C war criminals. She highlights the dual victimization of these individuals, who were treated as Japanese in court but denied veterans' rights and basic recognition by the Japanese government after the war.War Responsibility and Postwar Issues: Her writings analyze the debates on Japanese war responsibility, the legacies of the Tokyo War Crimes Tribunal, and the challenges of achieving true peace and reconciliation in Asia. She emphasizes the importance of understanding history "from the actual spot" and the necessity of justice for "the small existences."Through her books and articles, such as The Japanese Army's Policies on Prisoners of War and The Record of Korean Class B and C War Criminals, Dr. Utsumi has critically examined the organizational, legal, and ideological structures that underpinned Japan's wartime actions, ensuring that these painful historical truths are neither forgotten nor diminished.
Daniel Barenboim
25th Manhae Peace Prize 2021
Daniel Barenboim (born 1942, Buenos Aires) is one of the most celebrated and versatile figures in classical music, renowned globally as both an exceptional pianist and a distinguished conductor.A child prodigy, he gave his first public concert at age seven. His family moved to Israel in 1952, and he quickly established an international reputation, making his U.S. debut at Carnegie Hall in 1957. He is particularly admired for his deep interpretations of the piano works of Mozart, Beethoven, and Brahms.A Dual Career
Barenboim successfully maintained dual, equally brilliant careers as an instrumentalist and a conductor. He has held prestigious posts at some of the world's top institutions, including:Music Director of the Orchestre de Paris (1975–1989)Music Director of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (1991–2006)General Music Director of the Staatsoper Unter den Linden (Berlin State Opera) since 1992, where he was appointed Principal Conductor for Life of the Staatskapelle Berlin in 2000.Music and Peacemaking
Beyond his musical brilliance, Barenboim is a dedicated advocate for dialogue and peace, particularly in the Middle East. His most significant project is the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra (WEDO), which he co-founded in 1999 with the late Palestinian-American literary scholar Edward W. Said. The orchestra brings together young musicians from Israel, Palestine, and other Arab nations to perform together, using music as a means of mutual understanding and coexistence. The WEDO's work led to the establishment of the Barenboim-Said Akademie in Berlin, which offers music and humanities education to students primarily from the Middle East.Barenboim's commitment to bridging cultural divides, along with his extraordinary musical output, has earned him numerous international awards and honorary citizenships (including Spanish and Palestinian, in addition to his Argentine and Israeli passports)
Manhae Peace Prize Laureates (2020 ~ 2011)
Samana Phothirak
24th Manhae Peace Prize 2020
The Santi Asoke Movement
Phothirak was ordained as a monk in 1970 but quickly became highly critical of the perceived materialism, ritualism, and lax discipline within the mainstream Thai monastic order (Sangha). In 1975, he declared his group’s independence from the Supreme Sangha Council of Thailand, a move that branded him a heretic in the eyes of the establishment. He adopted the title Samana, an ancient term for an ascetic, to reflect his group's radical emphasis on simplicity.The core tenets of the Santi Asoke movement include:Extreme Asceticism: Adherents are strictly vegetarian, consume only one meal per day, and abstain from alcohol, sex, and the use of money.Anti-Materialism: The movement actively rejects modern consumer capitalism, promoting an alternative lifestyle centered on self-sufficiency and community-level economic resilience.Political Engagement: Phothirak believed that spiritual purity must extend to social and political action. He founded the Palang Dharma Party and was a visible figure in several anti-corruption and anti-government protests in Thailand.The movement, with its collective, simple communities, has been praised for its success in promoting an ethical and sustainable Buddhist lifestyle, leaving a significant legacy of both spiritual reform and social activism.
Haruki Wada
23rd Manhae Peace Prize 2019
Haruki Wada (born 1932) is a towering figure in Japanese academia, renowned globally as a leading professor emeritus of Soviet and Russian history at the prestigious University of Tokyo. While his early scholarship focused on detailed studies of Russian serfdom and the life of Vladimir Lenin, it is his deep and often challenging engagement with East Asian relations that defines his legacy as a public intellectual.Wada became one of the foremost Japanese experts on the Korean Peninsula, dedicating decades to analyzing the history of division, the politics of North Korea, and the complex path toward reunification. His work is characterized by meticulous research that challenges conventional narratives, most famously in his detailed historical analysis of the Korean War. He has advocated for acknowledging the complex roles of all involved parties, including Japan, in the region's historical traumas.Beyond his scholarly publications, Wada is a committed peace activist and social critic. He has consistently spoken out on highly sensitive issues, including demanding that the Japanese government take full responsibility and offer sincere apologies for historical atrocities committed during the colonial era, particularly concerning the issue of the "comfort women." His commitment to global peace is further reflected in his tireless defense of Article 9 of the Japanese Constitution, which renounces war.Wada’s blend of meticulous historical research and passionate human rights advocacy has established him as one of Japan's most respected, yet sometimes provocative, public voices dedicated to peace and historical justice in East Asia. His efforts underscore the necessity of critical self-reflection for regional reconciliation.
Cheng Yen
22nd Manhae Peace Prize 2018
Cheng Yen (born 1937, original name Wang Chin-Yun) is a Taiwanese Buddhist nun, teacher, and philanthropist. She is best known as the founder of the Tzu Chi Foundation (Buddhist Compassion Relief Tzu Chi Foundation), one of the largest Buddhist humanitarian organizations in the world.Life and Founding of Tzu Chi
Early Life and Vocation: Born in Taichung, Taiwan, Cheng Yen was deeply affected by suffering early in life, particularly the death of her foster father. She decided to enter monastic life and was ordained by the Venerable Yin Shun in 1963.The Foundation: In 1966, after a pivotal interaction with a dying woman who couldn't afford medical care, and a separate conversation with Catholic nuns about charity, Cheng Yen was inspired to put Buddhist teachings into action. She realized that charity must be organized and persistent.She started Tzu Chi with just 30 housewives, asking them to save 50 NT cents (about 2 US cents) every day in bamboo coin banks to help the poor. This simple, collective act of compassion became the foundation's enduring symbol.The Tzu Chi Foundation Today
From its humble beginnings, the Tzu Chi Foundation has grown into a massive international NGO with a presence in over 120 countries. Its mission is encapsulated by "Four Major Missions" and "Eight Footprints":Charity: Providing aid to the impoverished and victims of disasters.Medicine: Operating hospitals and supporting medical research.Education: Running universities, schools, and educational programs.Humanity (Culture): Promoting spiritual and moral education, and humanistic culture.Tzu Chi is famous for its immediate, large-scale disaster relief efforts around the world, often arriving on the ground quickly with resources.Philosophy and Impact
Cheng Yen's philosophy emphasizes humanistic Buddhism—bringing the teachings of the Buddha out of the monasteries and into real-world action to alleviate suffering. She teaches the concept of "Great Love," which transcends religion, race, and nationality.She has received numerous honors and awards, including the Ramon Magsaysay Award and has been repeatedly nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, solidifying her status as a global icon of charity and compassion.
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White Helmets
21st Manhae Peace Prize 2017
The White Helmets, officially known as the Syria Civil Defense, is a volunteer humanitarian organization formed in 2013 during the Syrian Civil War. Composed of ordinary citizens—including former bakers, tailors, and engineers—the group operates as first responders in areas outside of government control.Their primary mission is search and rescue, often pulling survivors from the rubble of buildings destroyed by airstrikes and barrel bombs. Guided by the Quranic verse, "To save a life is to save all of humanity," they claim to have saved over 128,000 lives. Beyond rescue, they provide essential services like firefighting, medical aid, and reconnecting electrical grids.The group's bravery has earned international acclaim, including a Right Livelihood Award and multiple Nobel Peace Prize nominations. However, their work has also made them targets; over 300 volunteers have been killed, many in "double-tap" strikes. Despite facing intense disinformation campaigns and accusations of political bias, they remain a symbol of civilian resilience in one of the world’s deadliest conflicts.
Lotus World
20th Manhae Peace Prize 2016
Lotus World (로터스월드) is a non-governmental organization based in South Korea dedicated to providing comprehensive international development and humanitarian aid, alongside targeted domestic relief efforts. The organization’s mission centers on fostering hope and improving the quality of life for vulnerable populations across the globe, emphasizing projects that promote self-reliance and sustainable community development.A cornerstone of Lotus World’s work is its Overseas Development Projects, which are primarily focused on three key Southeast Asian nations: Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos. These projects cover a wide spectrum of needs, from education and health to critical infrastructure. For instance, the organization actively engages in educational support, exemplified by the recently initiated three-week training program for Lao language teaching methods in Laos. Infrastructure development is also a priority, as seen by the completion of multiple water purification facilities in Myanmar—such as the system provided to the Takketha Temple School—to ensure access to clean water. In Cambodia, they work to improve living standards through housing initiatives like the "Happy Cam House Building Support" project, which assists families in need of safe homes. Furthermore, the organization is committed to immediate crisis response, actively launching emergency campaigns to support conflict-affected groups, such as refugees along the Cambodia-Thailand border.Domestically, Lotus World maintains an active presence through emergency relief operations and public awareness campaigns within South Korea. To sustain these vital programs, the organization relies on various forms of sponsorship and fundraising, including regular donations, one-on-one child matching programs, and corporate partnerships, all of which are accompanied by tax deduction benefits. Transparency is a key principle, with annual reports, financial statements, and regular activity updates, including news articles and videos, being publicly shared on their website. Through its consistent and multi-faceted work, Lotus World strives to create a positive and lasting humanitarian impact both internationally and at home.
Cheongsu Sharing Practice Association
20th Manhae Peace Prize 2016
The Cheongsu Sharing Practice Association (사단법인 원불교청수나눔실천회) is a non-profit international development and humanitarian aid organization founded in 2001 and affiliated with Won Buddhism. Its core mission is to embody the principles of compassion and sharing by fighting the "three diseases" of ignorance, poverty, and sickness worldwide.The association is spearheaded by its founder, the revered Won Buddhist minister Park Cheong-su, who is widely known in South Korea for her decades of selfless service and has earned the nickname the "Mother Teresa of Korea." The organization formalizes the extensive charitable work that Minister Park had previously carried out across more than 45 countries.Cheongsu Sharing Practice Association is particularly active in Cambodia, where it focuses on establishing vital community infrastructure and social services. Key initiatives include operating a free medical clinic in the Battambang province to provide essential healthcare to the underserved, and running daycare centers and after-school programs (offering classes like Korean language and art) to combat ignorance and support child development. Beyond these core efforts, the organization has also engaged in critical relief activities such as digging clean water wells for communities and supporting landmine removal efforts.The scope of its aid extends beyond Southeast Asia, encompassing humanitarian assistance for North Korean women and support for overseas Koreans in distress. For its outstanding commitment to peace and service, the association was a co-recipient of the prestigious Manhae Peace Award in 2016. By focusing on practical, long-term solutions and promoting global cooperation, the Cheongsu Sharing Practice Association strives to make a lasting, compassionate impact on the lives of the world's most vulnerable populations.
Alxis Dudden
19th Manhae Peace Prize 2015
Alexis Dudden is a prominent American historian specializing in modern Japan, modern Korea, and International History, currently serving as a Professor of History at the University of Connecticut. She also holds a position as a Visiting Professor of Japanese Studies at the National University of Singapore, bringing a global perspective to East Asian studies. Her extensive research centers on the complex and often contentious relationship between law, history, and memory in Northeast Asia, particularly focusing on the legacies of empire, nationalism, and post-war reconciliation.Dr. Dudden’s distinguished academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts from Columbia University and Master of Arts and Ph.D. degrees in History from the University of Chicago. She is widely recognized for her insightful scholarship on sensitive regional topics. Her major book publications include Japan's Colonization of Korea: Discourse and Power (2005), which rigorously examines how Japan successfully used the lexicon of international law to legitimize its imperial ambitions, and Troubled Apologies Among Japan, Korea, and the United States (2008), which analyzes the difficulties inherent in post-war efforts at reconciliation. She also co-authored the collaborative graphic history project titled CARGO REBELLION: Those Who Chose Freedom (2023).Her current major research project, The Opening and Closing of Japan, 1850-2020, explores Japan's contemporary territorial disputes and the evolving role of islands in international law. Dr. Dudden is frequently called upon by major international media outlets for her expert commentary on contemporary political and historical controversies in East Asia, including the ongoing tensions over territorial claims, debates over the legacy of Japan’s colonial rule, and shifts in South Korean democracy and foreign policy. She is also a recognized voice in debates concerning historical revisionism, emphasizing the historian's role in preventing the "abuse of history by weaponizing it for present purposes." Her academic work is considered essential for understanding the complexities of modern Japan-Korea relations.
House of Sharing
18th Manhae Peace Prize 2014
The House of Sharing (Korean: Nanum-ui Jib) is a vital human rights and welfare center located in Gwangju, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea. It was established in June 1992 by Korean civic and Buddhist organizations to provide a residence and a place of healing for the surviving victims of the Japanese military's system of sexual slavery during World War II, euphemistically known as "comfort women." The elderly survivors who reside there prefer the respectful Korean term halmoni, or 'grandmother.'The House of Sharing serves a crucial dual purpose: it is a dedicated nursing home for the aging halmoni, offering medical care, support, and a communal living environment. Crucially, it also houses The Museum of Sexual Slavery by the Japanese Military, which opened in 1998. This museum is the first of its kind, meticulously documenting the historical atrocities, preserving the survivors' testimonies, and promoting an accurate view of the system of state-sponsored sexual violence.The residents of the House of Sharing have transformed from victims into powerful human rights activists. They courageously share their stories globally, and for decades, the halmoni have been at the forefront of the weekly Wednesday Demonstration in Seoul, demanding a formal, sincere apology and legal compensation from the Japanese government. Their collective struggle is an enduring fight for dignity, justice, and accountability.The museum's exhibits feature historical documents, photographs, and moving original artwork created by the survivors as a form of art therapy and self-expression. As the number of surviving halmoni continues to dwindle due to old age, the House of Sharing is preparing for a new chapter, with recent proposals to convert the residential building entirely into a permanent memorial and museum, ensuring their history and fight for justice are preserved for future generations.
World Fellowship of Buddhists
17th Manhae Peace Prize 2013
The World Fellowship of Buddhists (WFB) is a prominent international organization uniting the global Buddhist community. Founded on May 25, 1950, in Colombo, Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), by the initiative of the distinguished scholar Dr. Gunapala Piyasena Malalasekera, the WFB marked a historic moment as it brought together representatives from 27 nations, including members of the Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana traditions, for a common cause.The WFB's core mission is multifaceted, focusing on five key objectives:To secure unity, solidarity, and brotherhood among Buddhists worldwide.To promote the strict observance and practice of the Buddha's teachings.To propagate the sublime doctrine of the Buddha.To organize and carry on social, educational, cultural, and humanitarian services.To collaborate with other organizations to work for happiness, harmony, and peace on earth.With its permanent headquarters located in Bangkok, Thailand, the WFB currently boasts over 200 Regional Centers across approximately 38 countries on every continent. The organization holds a biennial General Conference to coordinate its activities, which include its affiliated bodies like the World Fellowship of Buddhist Youth (WFBY) and the World Buddhist University (WBU).Through its extensive global network, the WFB works to address contemporary issues, fostering inter-religious dialogue, and mobilizing Buddhist principles to contribute to world peace and sustainable development, while remaining non-political in its direct activities.
Bishop Kim Seong-su
17th Manhae Peace Prize 2013
Kim Seong-su (Inchon) (1891–1955) - Educator and Politician 🇰🇷Kim Seong-su ($\text{Kim Sŏngsu}$), known by his art name Inchon ($\text{Inchon}$), was a highly influential Korean educator, journalist, entrepreneur, and politician during the Japanese colonial period and the early years of South Korea.Key ContributionsEducation: He is most famous as the founder of Korea University (by taking over and expanding Boseong College) and for managing Jung-Ang High School, playing a major role in developing Korean-led education.Journalism: He established The Dong-A Ilbo newspaper in 1920, which served as a significant national voice and a platform for intellectual discourse against Japanese rule.Business: He helped foster Korean economic independence by founding Kyungsung Spinning, one of the first major Korean-owned textile companies.Politics: Following independence, he co-founded the Korea Democratic Party and later served as the second Vice President of South Korea from 1951 to 1952, resigning in protest against President Rhee Syng-man's authoritarianism.Kim Seong-su's legacy is complex, as his work to build Korean institutions is weighed against documented instances of cooperation with the Japanese colonial regime, which has been a subject of historical debate and scrutiny in South Korea. He was posthumously awarded the Order of Merit for National Foundation.Bishop Simon Kim Seong-su (Anglican Church)A different figure, Simon Kim Seong-su, served as the Anglican Bishop of Seoul from 1985 to 1995 and was the Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Korea from 1993 to 1995.
Fethullah Gulen
17th Manhae Peace Prize 2013
Fethullah Gülen (1941–2024) was an influential Turkish Muslim scholar, preacher, and writer who founded the Gülen movement, also known as Hizmet ("Service"). Born in Erzurum, Turkey, his teachings blend a Sufi-influenced, moderate form of Islam with an emphasis on education, altruism, democracy, and interfaith dialogue. The movement grew into a global network that established thousands of schools, universities, hospitals, and businesses in over 100 countries, advocating for active civil society participation and modern science.Rise and Controversy
Gülen began his career as a state-licensed imam and preacher, gaining a substantial following throughout Turkey. His movement initially formed an alliance with Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's Justice and Development Party (AKP), aiding its rise to power in the early 2000s. However, the relationship fractured dramatically around 2013 over disagreements and corruption probes, leading to a bitter political rivalry.Gülen had lived in self-imposed exile in the United States since 1999, initially for medical treatment. Following the attempted military coup in Turkey on July 15, 2016, the Turkish government, led by President Erdoğan, officially designated the movement as the Fethullah Terrorist Organization (FETÖ) and accused Gülen of orchestrating the coup. This accusation triggered a massive government crackdown, resulting in widespread arrests, detentions, and purges of alleged sympathizers in the military, judiciary, and civil service.Legacy
While the Turkish government and allied international bodies consider him a terrorist leader, Gülen consistently denied any involvement in the coup. Western nations, including the U.S. and EU, have not recognized the Gülen movement as a terrorist organization due to a lack of credible evidence. His death in October 2024 in Pennsylvania marked the end of a life spent inspiring a unique, complex, and highly controversial social and religious phenomenon.
Aki Ra
16th Manhae Peace Prize 2012
Aki Ra (born c. 1970) is a celebrated Cambodian humanitarian, a former child soldier who has dedicated his life to clearing the landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) that continue to plague his home country. His life is a powerful story of redemption, turning the knowledge he gained laying mines for various armies during Cambodia's long conflicts into a force for saving lives.💣 From Child Soldier to Demining Hero
Orphaned by the Khmer Rouge, Aki Ra was conscripted as a child soldier, forcing him to plant countless landmines along Cambodia's border areas. After the war, he worked with the UN in demining operations. Recognizing the scale of the deadly problem, he began his personal, often unsanctioned, mission to clear mines in rural villages, initially using only crude tools like a knife, a hoe, and a stick. He estimates he has personally removed and destroyed as many as 50,000 landmines.🏛️ The Cambodia Landmine Museum and CSHD
To raise awareness and funds, Aki Ra established the Cambodia Landmine Museum near Siem Reap. The museum showcases his massive collection of defused explosives, serving as an educational testament to the horrors of war. The proceeds originally supported his burgeoning humanitarian efforts.In 2008, he formalized his work by founding the non-governmental organization Cambodian Self Help Demining (CSHD). This organization focuses on clearing low-priority, high-impact minefields in small, poor villages often overlooked by larger international operations. CSHD's work directly restores safe land to farming families.Aki Ra is also recognized for taking in and caring for dozens of at-risk children, many of whom are landmine victims. His dedication earned him international recognition, including being named a CNN Top 10 Hero in 2010.
Taekong Wolju
16th Manhae Peace Prize 2012
Master Taekongdang Wolju (태공당 월주 대종사), born in 1935, was one of the most significant and influential figures in modern Korean Buddhism and a respected leader in civil society. His long life as an ordained monk, spanning 68 years, saw him relentlessly work to modernize and unify the faith while dedicating himself to humanitarian causes.🏛️ Religious Leadership and Reform
Master Wolju's impact within the Jogye Order, the largest school of Korean Buddhism, was profound. Elected to the Central Council in 1966, he served in various high-ranking roles, including Director of General Affairs. His pinnacle achievement in the religious sphere was serving as the 17th and 28th President of the Jogye Order (1980–1981 and 1994–1998). During his presidency, he was a master architect of reform, working to reinforce the "Pure Rules" (monastic precepts), end internal conflicts, and lay the blueprint for the Order's future by establishing crucial bodies like the Monastic Education Bureau.🕊️ Humanitarian and Civil Activism
Beyond the monastery, Wolju was a towering figure in Korea’s civil rights and humanitarian movements. Living by the Bodhisattva vow of selfless generosity, he actively sought to relieve suffering.He was a tireless advocate for social justice, serving as a co-president for organizations like the Citizens' Coalition for Economic Justice and the Citizen's Coalition for Fair Election.In one of his most prominent acts of compassion, he founded the House of Sharing (나눔의 집) for the elderly "Comfort Women"—women forced into sexual slavery by the Imperial Japanese Army—helping them recover from trauma and restore their dignity.He later created the Good Hands Foundation to expand humanitarian aid to impoverished regions across Southeast Asia and Africa, embodying his philosophy that Koreans must "turn their eyes outward to the rest of the world."Master Wolju passed away in 2021 at the age of 87, leaving behind a legacy as a spiritual leader who perfectly balanced deep meditative practice with fervent, selfless social action.
Anuradha Koirala
15th Manhae Peace Prize 2011
Anuradha Koirala is a renowned Nepali social activist, widely recognized for her relentless battle against human trafficking and sexual exploitation. Lovingly called "Dijju" (elder sister) by those she serves, she is often referred to as the "Mother Teresa of Nepal" for her decades of selfless service.💖 Founder of Maiti Nepal
In 1993, Koirala founded Maiti Nepal, a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and reintegrating women and children who are victims of sex trafficking. The name "Maiti" means "mother's home" in Nepali, symbolizing a place of refuge and safety.Her work is deeply personal; having been a survivor of domestic abuse herself, she was driven to create a shelter for women who had nowhere else to turn. Maiti Nepal operates a network of prevention homes in high-risk areas, transit homes at the Indo-Nepal border to intercept potential victims, rehabilitation homes, and a school (Teresa Academy).✨ Major Achievements and Impact
Koirala and Maiti Nepal have achieved significant milestones, successfully rescuing and rehabilitating tens of thousands of women and children from the horrors of trafficking and brothels.Rescue and Rehabilitation: The organization has rescued and helped to rehabilitate over 50,000 women and girls, providing them with medical assistance (including Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) for HIV-positive victims), counseling, and vocational training to help them become self-sufficient.Advocacy and Convictions: Maiti Nepal works closely with law enforcement, patrolling the Indo-Nepal border and assisting in the apprehension of nearly 2,200 traffickers and perpetrators of rape. Her persistent efforts led the Government of Nepal to formally recognize September 5th as National Anti-Human Trafficking Day.Awards: Koirala's work has earned her numerous national and international honors, most notably being named CNN Hero of the Year in 2010. She is also a recipient of India's fourth-highest civilian award, the Padma Shri (2017).Beyond her activist work, Koirala also served in a political role as the first Governor of Bagmati Province from 2018 to 2019. Her life is a testament to the power of compassion and determination in fighting global human rights abuses.
Manhae Peace Prize Laureates (2010 ~ 2001)
Dong Kurn Lee
14th Manhae Peace Prize 2010
Dong Kurn Lee (Born 1938) - Corporate and Humanitarian Leader 🇰🇷
The most recognized figure with the name Dong Kurn Lee is a prominent Korean business executive and international humanitarian leader.Rotary International President: Lee is best known for serving as the President of Rotary International for the 2008-2009 term, making him the first Korean to hold the organization's highest office in its 103-year history at the time. His presidential theme was "Make Dreams Real," focusing on efforts to reduce child mortality, improve literacy, and provide clean water.Business Career: He is the chairman of the Bubang Group in Seoul, which includes manufacturing companies like Bubang Co. Ltd. and Bubang Techron Co. Ltd.Public Service: A Rotarian since 1971, his charitable work includes a significant commitment to polio eradication efforts globally. He was appointed an international goodwill ambassador by the President of Korea in 2005 and has served as the Honorary Consul for the Italian Consulate in Korea since 1994. He has been honored with the Order of Industrial Merit by the Korean government.
Shirin Ebadi
13th Manhae Peace Prize 2009
Shirin Ebadi is a globally renowned Iranian lawyer, writer, and human rights activist, best known for being the first Iranian and the first Muslim woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize in 2003. She was recognized for her significant efforts in promoting democracy and human rights, with a particular focus on the rights of women and children in Iran.Early Career and Activism
Born in 1947, Ebadi's career began breaking barriers in Iran. In 1975, she became the first woman president of the Tehran city court—one of the first female judges in the country. Following the 1979 Islamic Revolution, she was dismissed from her judgeship, as the new conservative clerics deemed women unsuitable to serve as judges.Refusing to be silenced, she eventually regained her license to practice law in 1992 and began taking on controversial, pro-bono cases defending political dissidents and victims of government repression. Her activism is rooted in the belief that Islam is compatible with fundamental human rights, advocating for a modern interpretation of Islamic law.Nobel Prize and Continued Struggle
Ebadi co-founded the Defenders of Human Rights Center (DHRC) in Iran, which provided legal aid to those persecuted by the authorities. Her work includes successfully campaigning for a law against physical abuse of children, passed by the Iranian parliament in 2002.The Nobel Committee praised her personal courage and willingness to fight for justice despite threats to her own safety. Following the Nobel award, her work faced intense pressure from the Iranian government, including the closure of the DHRC and the confiscation of her Nobel medal.Since 2009, Shirin Ebadi has lived in exile in the United Kingdom, continuing her advocacy for human rights and political change in Iran from abroad. She remains a powerful voice, calling for a peaceful transition to democracy and promoting the work of the Nobel Women's Initiative, which she co-founded.
Lee Eo-ryeong
12th Manhae Peace Prize 2008
Lee Eo-ryeong (1934–2022) was a towering figure in South Korean intellectual, literary, and cultural life for over six decades. A prolific critic, novelist, essayist, and professor, he was widely respected as one of the nation's most profound and versatile public intellectuals.Born in 1934, Lee first gained fame as a literary critic in the post-Korean War era, challenging established literary norms with influential essays like "Destruction of an Idol" (1956). His writings, including the best-selling essay collection In This Earth & in That Wind, were known for their sophisticated rhetoric and deep insight into the Korean psyche, culture, and society.Lee’s influence extended into public service when he was appointed South Korea’s first Minister of Culture in 1990, under the Roh Tae-woo administration. During this time, he was instrumental in establishing the groundwork for the nation's modern cultural policy, including the establishment of the National Institute of Korean Language. Furthermore, he served as the culture planner who organized the opening and closing ceremonies of the 1988 Seoul Olympics.His later works delved into the philosophy of culture, creativity, and the digital age, often emphasizing the idea of "creation" over "choice" as a path for the Korean peninsula's survival. Even after a cancer diagnosis, he refused chemotherapy, choosing instead to focus his final years on writing, cementing his legacy as a courageous and unwavering intellectual.
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Omar Bongo Ondimba
11th Manhae Peace Prize 2007
Omar Bongo Ondimba (born Albert-Bernard Bongo; 1935–2009) was a Gabonese politician who served as the second President of Gabon from 1967 until his death in 2009. His tenure of nearly 42 years made him one of the longest-serving non-royal heads of state in the world.Bongo began his political career by quickly rising through the ranks under Gabon's first president, Léon M'ba, and assumed the presidency peacefully in 1967 at the age of 32 following M'ba's death. A year later, he established a single-party state under the Gabonese Democratic Party (PDG), which lasted until public pressure forced the introduction of multi-party politics in 1990. Despite facing opposition, Bongo maintained power through a mix of political shrewdness, controversial elections, and distributing the country's oil wealth to co-opt rivals and ensure stability.Gabon, a major oil producer, achieved one of Africa's highest per capita GDPs during his rule, though critics pointed to widespread corruption and the concentration of wealth among Bongo's family and the elite. His rule was characterized by a strong, mutually beneficial relationship with France, known as Françafrique, which provided diplomatic and military support. Bongo's death in 2009 led to his son, Ali Bongo Ondimba, succeeding him, continuing the family's rule for another 14 years.
Nambarin Enkhbayar
10th Manhae Peace Prize 2006
Nambaryn Enkhbayar (born 1958) is a prominent Mongolian politician and the first individual in the country's democratic history to have held all three of the highest leadership positions: Prime Minister (2000–2004), Speaker of the State Great Khural (Parliament, 2004–2005), and President of Mongolia (2005–2009).Educated in literature in Moscow and the UK, Enkhbayar began his career as a translator and writer before transitioning into politics following the 1990 democratic revolution. A key figure in the Mongolian People's Revolutionary Party (MPRP)—the former Communist ruling party—he helped lead its transformation into a democratic-socialist entity.During his political rise, Enkhbayar oversaw significant national projects, notably the ambitious Millennium Road initiative and the successful elimination of Mongolia's historical debt to the former Soviet Union. His presidency, however, was marked by political volatility, including violent protests over the 2008 legislative election results.Enkhbayar was defeated in his re-election bid in 2009. His political trajectory was later complicated by his 2012 arrest and conviction on corruption charges, which he claimed were politically motivated. Despite legal challenges, he has remained an active, if controversial, force in Mongolian politics, later founding a new political party and continuing to comment on national affairs.
Dalai Lama
9th Manhae Peace Prize 2005
The Dalai Lama is the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism and, until 2011, served as the temporal (political) head of Tibet. The current and 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso (born Lhamo Thondup in 1935), is revered by Tibetans as the living manifestation of Avalokiteśvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. The title itself, a combination of the Mongolian word dalai (ocean) and the Tibetan lama (teacher), signifies "Ocean of Wisdom."Recognized as the reincarnation of his predecessor at the age of two, he was enthroned in Lhasa in 1940. Following the 1950 invasion of Tibet by the People's Republic of China, and a subsequent failed uprising, he was forced to flee into exile in India in 1959.From his headquarters in Dharamshala, India, the Dalai Lama has become a world-renowned figure. He has tirelessly advocated for the peaceful resolution of the Tibetan issue with China through his "Middle Way Approach," which seeks genuine autonomy rather than outright independence. He has promoted universal ethics, interfaith harmony, and compassion across the globe, earning him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989.In 2011, he voluntarily devolved his political authority to a democratically elected Tibetan government-in-exile, retiring from his role as head of state to focus purely on his spiritual responsibilities. His legacy is defined by his commitment to non-violence and his role as a global ambassador for peace and Buddhist wisdom.
Nelson Mandela
8th Manhae Peace Prize 2004
1995 – Nelson Mandela
Nelson Mandela was selected by ACCORD’s Board of Trustees as the recipient of the Award. Nelson Mandela is in many ways an embodiment of the very essence of everything that the Africa Peace Award represents. At the Award ceremony, the then Secretary General of the Organisation of African Unity (now the African Unity), Dr. Salim A. Salim, described Nelson Mandela as ‘one of the greatest sons of Africa, a world statesman and a legend in his lifetime.’
Kim Dae-jung
7th Manhae Peace Prize 2003
🇰🇷 Kim Dae-jung: From Dissident to Nobel Laureate
Kim Dae-jung (1924–2009) was a pivotal figure in South Korea's transition to democracy and a Nobel Peace Prize laureate. Often dubbed the "Nelson Mandela of Asia," his life was marked by decades of courageous struggle against authoritarian rule. As an opposition leader, he survived multiple assassination attempts, was kidnapped by state agents in 1973, imprisoned several times, and even sentenced to death by a military court in 1980 before international pressure led to its commutation and his eventual exile.Key Achievements
In 1997, Kim Dae-jung achieved a historic victory, becoming the first opposition party leader to be elected President of South Korea. His presidency (1998–2003) began during the Asian Financial Crisis, which he successfully navigated through bold economic reforms, including strengthening the market economy and reforming the powerful chaebol (conglomerates).His most enduring legacy is the Sunshine Policy toward North Korea. Named after the Aesop's fable "The North Wind and the Sun," this policy promoted engagement, reconciliation, and cooperation rather than confrontation. Its core principles were: no tolerance for armed provocation, no intent to absorb the North, and active pursuit of peace. The policy aimed to soften the North's attitude through non-political economic and cultural exchanges.In June 2000, Kim Dae-jung held the first-ever inter-Korean summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong-il, a monumental step toward reconciliation. For his efforts to strengthen democracy and human rights in South Korea and for his pioneering work toward peace with North Korea, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2000. He remains a symbol of resilience and democratic idealism.
Kang Won-ryong
6th Manhae Peace Prize 2002
Reverend Dr. Kang Won-ryong (1917–2006) was one of modern South Korea's most influential Christian leaders and a tireless advocate for democracy, human rights, and inter-Korean reconciliation. A foundational figure in the Korean ecumenical movement, he spent a lifetime building bridges—between faiths, ideologies, and the divided halves of the Korean peninsula.In 1945, Kang founded the Kyoung Dong Presbyterian Church in Seoul, a starting point for his expansive ministry. However, his influence stretched far beyond the pulpit. In 1962, he established the Korean Christian Academy, a crucial non-governmental organization that became a nexus for interfaith dialogue, bringing together leaders from Korea's six major religions.During South Korea's authoritarian regimes, particularly in the 1970s, Kang was a courageous voice for human rights and democracy. He faced surveillance and even arrest for his activities, but his commitment to peaceful dialogue and democratic processes never wavered. He sought a "third way"—a path of compromise and reconciliation—between the extremes of political conflict.Internationally, he held prominent positions, including President of the Christian Conference of Asia. His efforts for peace were recognized globally when he was awarded the Niwano Peace Prize in 2000. Reverend Kang Won-ryong is remembered as a spiritual statesman who dedicated his life to promoting a harmonious, just, and reunified Korea.
Chung Ju-young
5th Manhae Peace Prize 2001
Chung Ju-yung (1915–2001) was the legendary founder of the Hyundai Group and a central figure in South Korea’s transformation into an economic powerhouse. Born the eldest son of a poor farmer in what is now North Korea, his life is the quintessential "rags-to-riches" story of the "Miracle on the Han River."Chung fled his impoverished home multiple times, finally settling in Seoul where he worked menial jobs before opening a small rice store. After World War II, his entrepreneurial drive truly took hold. He founded Hyundai Engineering & Construction in 1947, which quickly became a leader in the nation's post-war rebuilding, securing major contracts for infrastructure like the Seoul-Busan Expressway.His vision was audacious. He expanded into high-risk, capital-intensive industries with no prior experience, earning him the nickname "The Bulldozer." In 1967, he founded Hyundai Motor Company, insisting on developing South Korea's first entirely domestic car, the Pony. He then established Hyundai Heavy Industries, which rapidly grew into the world's largest shipbuilder despite his initial lack of a shipyard.In his later years, Chung focused on promoting peace and reconciliation between the two Koreas. His most memorable gesture was the 1998 cross-border delivery of 1,001 cattle to North Korea, symbolizing his commitment to inter-Korean cooperation. His relentless determination, creative leadership, and nationalistic spirit forged a global conglomerate and indelibly shaped modern South Korea.
Manhae Peace Prize Laureates (2000 ~ 1997)
Stephen Winn Linton
4th Manhae Peace Prize 2000
Stephen Winn Linton (born 1950) is an American humanitarian and an acknowledged expert on the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea). He is best known as the founder and chairman of the Eugene Bell Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing medical humanitarian assistance to rural North Korea.Linton was raised in a rural area of Jeollanam-do, South Korea, as the son of a prominent missionary family whose ties to Korea date back to 1895. His father, Hugh Linton, established over 200 churches in rural Korea, and his mother, Betty Linton, served for 40 years as director of a Christian Tuberculosis Rehabilitation Center.He has visited North Korea more than 80 times since 1979, initially as an observer and later in his work, traveling to every province to assess needs and monitor assistance. He twice met the country's late president, Kim Il Sung, as an advisor and translator to the Rev. Billy Graham.The Eugene Bell Foundation, which he established in 1995, initially provided food aid but shifted its focus to tuberculosis (TB), considered a major health issue. In recent years, the foundation has concentrated on multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB), a more complex and costly form of the disease to treat. The foundation currently sponsors 12 medical centers, drawing patients from the western half of North Korea and providing the necessary drugs and diagnostic equipment. Linton is currently an affiliated scholar at Harvard University's Korea Institute.Linton's life and work reflect a long-standing family commitment to humanitarian service in Korea across multiple generations.
Yoon Jeong-ok
3rd Manhae Peace Prize 1999
Yoon Jeong-ok is a pivotal South Korean scholar and human rights activist best known for her crucial role in bringing the issue of "Comfort Women"—euphemistically named victims of military sexual slavery by the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II—to global attention.As a professor, Dr. Yoon conducted extensive research and fieldwork in the 1980s and early 1990s, diligently collecting testimonies that challenged decades of silence and denial. Her efforts were instrumental in founding the Korean Council for the Women Drafted for Military Sexual Slavery by Japan (Chongdaehyop) in 1990, a coalition of women's organizations dedicated to demanding justice.Her relentless work laid the foundation for the first public testimony of a former "Comfort Woman." In 1991, following Yoon’s persistent outreach, Kim Hak-sun publicly broke her silence, which led to a cascade of further testimonies and catalyzed the international movement for official apology, compensation, and redress from the Japanese government.Dr. Yoon’s advocacy framed the issue not merely as a historical atrocity but as a systematic crime against humanity and a gross violation of women's rights. Her work has fundamentally shaped the global discourse on gender violence in armed conflict, inspiring survivors to speak out and hold perpetrators accountable worldwide.
Kim Soon-kwon
2nd Manhae Peace Prize 1998
🌽 Kim Soon-kwon: The "Dr. Corn"
Kim Soon-kwon (born May 1, 1945) is a renowned South Korean agricultural scientist and maize specialist, widely known as the "Dr. Corn" in Korea and the "Green Revolutionary" in Africa for his development of high-yield and resilient hybrid corn varieties.Born to a poor family in Ulsan, his early life fostered a dream of combating global hunger. After studying at the University of Hawaii, he returned to South Korea and, in just five years, developed a successful corn hybrid that tripled the country's corn production and dramatically boosted farmers' incomes, an achievement that took other countries decades.From 1979 to 1995, Dr. Kim worked for the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Nigeria, where he focused on developing corn that could thrive in challenging environments. His most notable success in Africa was creating varieties resistant to the devastating parasitic weed, striga (known as "Devil's herb"). While others tried to eradicate the weed, Dr. Kim developed a co-survival tolerance method that reduced crop loss from 73% to just 5%, a breakthrough that earned him the Nigerian title "Mayegun" (Who feed poors).Returning to Korea, he initiated the "Corn for Peace" project, asserting that his techniques could alleviate the food shortage in North Korea and foster dialogue between the two Koreas. He founded the International Corn Foundation (ICF) in 1998, and his work, including the development of "Reunification maize," led to an estimated half a million tons of additional grain production annually in North Korea since 2001. He has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize multiple times for his humanitarian efforts.
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Cho Young-sik
1st Manhae Peace Prize 1997
Cho Young-sik (also spelled Young Seek Choue and Miwon Young Seek Choue in some sources) was a prominent South Korean educator and philosopher, best known as the founder of the Kyung Hee University System. He played a pivotal role in expanding the university into a comprehensive educational institution committed to the ideals of peace and cultural world creation.Cho took over the debt-ridden Shinheung Junior College in 1951 amidst the Korean War, renaming it Kyung Hee University in 1955. His vision for the university, often expressed as the "Creation of a cultural world," was deeply rooted in the concept of "Hongik Ingan" (to widely benefit humanity). Under his leadership, the university’s motto became "democratization of the academy, democratization of ideology, democratization of life." He served multiple terms as the university's president and helped establish numerous affiliated institutions and the magnificent Hall of Peace.Beyond education, Cho Young-sik was a global activist for peace and sustainable development. He was the originator of the Global Common Society (GCS) Movement, which advocates for global cooperation and civic responsibility. A significant achievement was his proposal to the United Nations for an International Day of Peace, which the UN formally adopted and observed for the first time in 1982. This work solidified his legacy as a global figure dedicated to realizing world peace through education and ethical action.