A man who saved more than 2,000 babies with a single box

In South Korea, an elderly pastor and his wife have saved over 2,000 abandoned infants through a “Baby Box” system designed as a last-resort safety measure for struggling parents. When a baby is placed inside the climate-controlled box, an alarm alerts staff, who immediately take the infant into care. The system, launched in 2009, has become a critical lifeline for newborns in crisis.

The Baby Box was created by Pastor Lee Jong-rak, who was inspired by his late son and his experiences caring for sick and abandoned children. What began as personal compassion grew into a full sanctuary for vulnerable infants and their families. Over time, his work has helped not only children but also parents facing poverty, stigma, or difficult circumstances.

While some critics argue that the system may encourage abandonment, supporters say it serves as a vital emergency option and has contributed to broader reforms, including laws that allow confidential childbirth. Beyond immediate rescue, the Baby Box aims to support mothers in crisis and, in many cases, has helped families reunite or rebuild their lives.

Edited using generative AI tools.  
Source :https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/video/howdykorea/20260610/video-a-man-who-saved-more-than-2000-babies-with-a-single-box

Comprehension

What is the purpose of the Baby Box system?
Who created the Baby Box, and when was it launched?
What happens when a baby is placed inside the box?
What inspired Pastor Lee to start this system?
What legal change in Korea is connected to the Baby Box advocacy?

Discussion

Do you think Baby Boxes are a good solution for abandoned infants? Why or why not?
What other support systems could help struggling mothers?
Should governments be responsible for programs like the Baby Box? Why?
How can society reduce the stigma around unwed motherhood?
What are the possible risks or criticisms of Baby Box systems?
How can communities better support families in poverty?
Why is confidential childbirth important for some mothers?
What role should individuals and charities play in social welfare?

Vocabulary

Abandoned – left behind without care or support
Infant – a very young baby
Sanctuary – a safe place offering protection and care
Stigma – negative social judgment or shame
Confidential – kept private or secret
Advocacy – public support for a cause or policy
Crisis – a serious or difficult situation
Lifeline – something that provides essential help or support
Reunification – bringing separated people or families back together
Compassion – deep sympathy and care for others