Min Byeongjin of Wonju for Auto Maintenance and Lee Deuk-gil of Gangneung for Baking Achieve Master Craftsman Status

Min Byeongjin of Wonju in the field of auto maintenance and Lee Deuk-gil of Gangneung in the field of baking have been selected as representative Master Craftsmen of Gangwon State.
Gangwon State announced on the 9th that Min Byeongjin, Technical Manager at Kia Wonju Service Center in the auto maintenance sector, and Lee Deuk-gil, CEO of Sokcho-based Bakery Garoo in the baking sector, were each selected as this year's Master Craftsmen.
The Gangwon-do Master Craftsman System is a program that selects and supports outstanding skilled professionals who have led technological advancement in local industries. Since 2019, 20 individuals across 12 professions have been named Master Craftsmen.
This year's Master Craftsmen were chosen through a process that included document screening and on-site evaluations starting in May, followed by a final review by the Gangwon State Master Craftsman Committee in September. Selected Master Craftsmen receive a certificate, a plaque, a badge, and an annual technology incentive of 3 million won for two years.
Min Byeongjin, a welding master with over 32 years of experience in auto maintenance, possesses advanced skills in CO2 arc welding and spot welding.
He was highly regarded for his practical expertise in all processes, from diagnosing and restoring structural damage to car bodies, to joining and quality assurance.
He was also recognized for his contributions as a judge at regional and national skills competitions, as well as for nurturing future talent by teaching at local schools and coaching participants for national competitions.
Lee Deuk-gil, a master baker with over 21 years of experience, has demonstrated exceptional ability in developing products using natural fermentation and domestic agricultural and marine products.
In particular, he contributed to revitalizing the local economy by developing new products using regional specialties. Since founding his bakery in 2011, he has grown it into a leading Gangneung bakery brand, employing over 70 people.
He has also taken the lead in community engagement by volunteering to share bread with youth and seniors living alone.
Kim Gwangrae, Vice Governor for Economic Affairs, stated, “I deeply thank the Master Craftsmen who have dedicated themselves on the front lines for many years, contributing to the development of local industries and the transmission of skills. We will continue to actively discover and support outstanding skilled professionals in various fields to strengthen regional industry competitiveness and foster the next generation.”

kees26@fnnews.com Kim Ki-seop Reporter