On November 19, the Korean Agency for Technology and Standards under the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy hosted the 40th National Quality Management Convention at COEX in Seoul. The event recognized individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to strengthening Korea’s industrial competitiveness and advancing quality management.

Chairman Kim Jong-seok of PyungHwa Oil Seal Industry Receives Gold Tower Order — “KRW 2.5 Trillion in Import Substitution”

The highest honor of the convention, the Gold Tower Order of Industrial Service Merit, was awarded to Chairman Kim Jong-seok of PyungHwa Oil Seal Industry, who has led Korea’s rubber industry for 37 years.

Chairman Kim was recognized for successfully localizing key components such as oil seals and O-rings, which prevent contaminants from entering machinery systems. His achievements generated an estimated KRW 2.5 trillion in import substitution effects, making a significant contribution to the development of Korea’s automotive and machinery industries.

Other Major Award Recipients

Major decorations and commendations were presented to business leaders and companies demonstrating excellence in quality management.

Silver Tower Order of Industrial Service Merit: Chairman Kim Bo-kyun of Chemtronics; Executive Vice President Song Kwon-ho of Hankook Tire & Technology

• Bronze Tower Order of Industrial Service Merit: CEO Jang Gi-bong of Master Automobile Management
• Iron Tower Order of Industrial Service Merit: CEO Lee Dong-woo of Hotel Lotte (Lotte World)
• National Quality Award (Organization): Daehan Solution, a key quality partner to global automakers including Hyundai Motor Company and General Motors

Recognizing Leaders in Quality Innovation

In addition to the industrial decorations, a total of 425 awards were presented, including Presidential and Prime Minister commendations.

Notably, 293 Quality Control Circle teams that proactively led quality improvement initiatives at industrial sites were honored, and 26 exemplary workers demonstrating outstanding craftsmanship were newly designated as National Quality Masters.