He was given six months to live. He spent it finding a home for his autistic son
Jeon Gyeong-cheol, a South Korean author known for his advocacy for disabled children, has passed away at 64. His public search for a care facility for his autistic son sparked national conversation and support for developmental disability welfare.
Why it matters
His story highlighted the systemic challenges faced by families of individuals with developmental disabilities and catalyzed charitable support and social awareness.
SEOUL: Author Jeon Gyeong-cheol, widely known as the "Peter Pan Dad" for documenting his search for a home where his disabled son could live after his death, died Saturday. He was 64 and had been fighting late-stage liver cancer.
Jeong Yu-jin, head of the Developmental Disabilities Support Expert Forum, announced Jeon's death on social media Sunday, saying the funeral would be held without a formal wake, in accordance with his wishes.
"He is currently at the hospital, and no separate memorial hall will be set up. We extend our deepest condolences," she wrote.
Jeon spent more than two decades as the sole caregiver for his son, who is now 27 and has autism, with his developmental level assessed as that of a 2- or 3-year-old.
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