The Inspiring Journey of Baik Sung-Hak: “The Search for Billy”

In the midst of the Korean War in 1952, a 12-year-old orphan named Baik Sung-Hak survived the harsh conditions of South Korea by scavenging discarded food from U.S. military camps. His life took a pivotal turn when he was taken in by a U.S. artillery unit as a "washy-washy boy," tasked with menial duties but given kindness and care in return.

Among the soldiers was Billy, a 20-year-old private first class known for his gentleness and compassion. Billy saw Baik as a younger brother, providing him with food, comfort, and teaching him English. Despite the chaos of war, Billy ensured that Baik felt a sense of safety and hope. He even went so far as to save Baik’s life when a burning gasoline explosion left the young boy severely injured. Billy’s actions and words had a profound impact on Baik.

When the war ended and Baik was sent to an orphanage, he tried to return to Billy’s unit but was turned away. He eventually found work at a U.S. medical facility in Sokcho, where he continued to recover from his injuries. Determined to make a better life, Baik worked tirelessly and by the age of 18 was managing two stores and a small factory in Seoul.

At 19, Baik took a bold step by opening his own hat store. His hard work paid off, and he soon became one of South Korea's leading hat manufacturers. Today, Baik Sung-Hak’s company employs thousands worldwide and produces millions of hats annually.

Despite his success, Baik never forgot Billy. In the mid-1980s, driven by gratitude and a desire to honor his wartime benefactor, Baik purchased 45 acres of land in Hongchon and established a village, Baik Hak Village, to support orphans and the less fortunate. He named a section of the village "Billy's House" in tribute to his friend.

In June 1986, Baik published an article in Reader's Digest, seeking to find Billy and express his gratitude. Despite over 300 responses, the search yielded no results. Baik continued his quest and in 1990, a second article in Reader's Digest detailed the ongoing search for Billy. This time, retired FBI counterintelligence veteran Courtland Jones took on the case. After a lengthy investigation, Jones discovered that Billy was, in fact, David Beattie.

Beattie, now living a modest life in Philadelphia, was humbled to learn of Baik’s success and his quest to find him. In a heartfelt reunion, Baik and Beattie reconnected, reminiscing about their shared past. Beattie, though financially modest, had lived a life of quiet decency that mirrored the kindness he had shown Baik.

Baik Sung-Hak’s story is a powerful testament to the impact of kindness and the lengths one man will go to honor it. Despite numerous challenges, his relentless search led to a heartfelt reunion with Billy, revealing the enduring power of simple human decency. Baik’s unwavering gratitude and commitment to making a difference reflect the deep, lasting influence of Billy’s original acts of kindness.

For those interested in the full story of Baik and his search for Billy, or for more information about Baik Hak Village, please reach out to us. Baik's commitment to giving back continues to inspire and drive positive change around the world.