The organization 'Banolim', dedicated to the health and human rights of semiconductor workers, received the 10th Democracy Activist Kim Geun-tae Award, recognizing its commitment since its establishment in 2007 following the tragic death of semiconductor worker Hwang Yu-mi from Samsung Electronics. The award ceremony took place on the morning of the 12th, with the theme 'Hope Comes from Joined Hands', highlighting the significance of solidarity in the ongoing fight for human rights.

In addition to Banolim, the award ceremony also honored the Refugee Human Rights Center with a special award in the human rights category and several educational institutions and individuals in the education category. Specifically, the Bucheon Industrial High School, Geumsan Gandhi School, and Goyang Freedom School received special awards, while four individuals—Moon Seong-ho, Jung Chan-young, Jung Kyoo-rin, and Lee Jae-seung—were recognized for their individual contributions to education. This diverse range of awards reflects the broad impact of various organizations and individuals in promoting democracy and human rights within South Korea.

The Democracy Activist Kim Geun-tae Award is co-hosted by the Kim Geun-tae Foundation, led by Chairman Jin Jae-geun, in collaboration with the Minpyeongryun organization, chaired by Lee In-young, showcasing the collaborative effort to honor those who fight for democracy and advocate for the oppressed. With such recognition, it reinforces the importance of civic engagement in democratic movements within the nation, making clear the enduring relevance of Kim Geun-tae’s legacy in contemporary South Korean society.