For as much attention as has been given to the acts of the Sewolho ferry captain and crew who abandoned the vessel with hundreds still on board,... there are countless other stories of heroes... who put others' lives before theirs.
The government on Monday officially recognized three of them as 'martyrs.'
Twentytwoyearold Park Jiyoung , a parttime worker on the ferry,... will be remembered for staying on board to hand out life vests,... even foregoing one herself.
Kim Kiwoong , and Jung Hyunseon , an engaged couple,... could have been rescued from the severely listing ferry but decided instead to go back inside to help others escape.
All three died.
Being designated as a martyr by the government means they can be buried at a national cemetery.
It also makes their bereaved families eligible for financial compensation, medical assistance and other incentives.
In addition to these three heroes,... the government is reviewing a list of others who were aboard the Sewolho for the martyr designation.