The WBC mourns the passing of Major Lee, a pillar of Korean Boxing

The World Boxing Council and its President, Mauricio Sulaimán, join the boxing family in mourning the passing of Lee Won-Bok, better known and respected worldwide as “Major Lee.”

At 97 years old, Major Lee leaves behind a tremendous, memorable and legendary legacy of integrity and service spanning more than half a century. A veteran pilot of the Korean Air Force, Lee transitioned the discipline, dedication, clarity and honor of his military career to the ring, becoming a pivotal figure in the international projection of boxing in his country.

His mastery of English and his gentlemanly demeanor made him the perfect bridge between Korea and the rest of the world. From his early days as an international matchmaker for Dong-A Promotions—working with legends such as Myung-Woo Yuh and Chong-Pal Park—to his invaluable work as international coordinator for the Korean Boxing Commission (KBC) and, more recently, for the KBM (Korean Boxing Members’ Commission),

Major Lee was a tireless ambassador for our sport. A gentle, a gentleman and an honorable man, who we so admired.
The WBC sends its deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the entire boxing community in Korea.

May he rest in Eternal Peace.