Chun Doo-hwan
South Korean general and politician
Born
Died
2021
5 years ago — 90 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
South Korea
Links & References
A military general and politician, served as the 5th President of South Korea from 1980 to 1988. Initially gained power through a coup in 1979, becoming the de facto leader followed by an official presidency. Emphasized economic development during the presidency, leading to significant growth despite enduring criticism for human rights abuses and suppression of dissent. Oversaw the June Democracy Movement which called for democratic reforms and political freedoms.
Served as President of South Korea from 1980 to 1988
Strengthened South Korea's economy during presidency
Facilitated the 1988 Seoul Olympics
Other People Born on January 18th
Werner Olk
Football player and manager, 1. Bundesliga
Born
January 18th, 1938 88 years ago
A German football player and manager, primary involvement occurred during the mid-20th century. Played as a forward and made contributions to various clubs in Germany, participating in the 1. Bundesliga. Transitioned to a managerial role after retirement from playing, overseeing several teams and shaping their competitive strategies.
Continue ReadingGad Yaacobi
Israeli Diplomat, UN Ambassador
Born
January 18th, 1935 91 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 72 years old
An academic and diplomat, served as the 10th Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations. Contributed to various international discussions regarding Israel's position on global issues. Held significant roles in both academic circles and governmental frameworks, bridging knowledge and diplomacy.
Continue ReadingBob Hansen
Basketball player and sportscaster
Born
January 18th, 1961 65 years ago
Played college basketball at the University of Iowa, where he earned All-Big Ten honors. Selected by the Utah Jazz in the 1983 NBA Draft, contributed to the team for several seasons. Transitioned to sports broadcasting after retirement, providing analysis and commentary for various networks. Recognized for insights and understanding of the game.
Continue ReadingSeung-Hui Cho
Mass murderer responsible for Virginia Tech shooting
Born
January 18th, 1984 42 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 23 years old
Born in South Korea, committed a mass shooting at Virginia Tech on April 16, 2007, which resulted in 32 deaths and injuries to many others. The incident is remembered as one of the deadliest school shootings in U.S. history. Cho was a student at Virginia Tech prior to the shooting and had exhibited signs of mental health issues in the years leading up to the event. He wrote and directed a series of disturbing plays that reflected his troubled state of mind. Cho's actions spurred discussions about gun control and mental health resources in educational institutions.
Continue ReadingBrett Lawrie
Baseball player for the Toronto Blue Jays
Born
January 18th, 1990 36 years ago
A professional baseball player, competed in Major League Baseball (MLB) primarily with the Toronto Blue Jays. Played as a third baseman and was recognized for powerful hitting and defensive skills. Made his MLB debut in 2011 and played until 2017. Played for the Milwaukee Brewers and the Chicago White Sox after his tenure with the Blue Jays. Finished career with a batting average of .261.
Continue ReadingBill Meanix
American Hurdler and Coach
Born
January 18th, 1892 134 years ago
Died
1957 69 years ago — 65 years old
An accomplished hurdler, achievements included competing in the 1920 Summer Olympics. Served as a coach for track and field, contributing to the development of future athletes. Helped elevate the profile of the hurdles through coaching and mentoring.
Continue Reading