A 12-year-old student from
The invention was inspired by a tragic 2022 hotel fire in Bucheon that resulted in seven fatalities. After learning during a school field trip that smoke and toxic fumes are often the primary cause of incapacitation during fires, Kim sought a solution that utilized an item people consistently keep nearby, even while sleeping. Her design integrates a collapsible grip containing activated carbon fiber and a nonwoven filter, materials capable of absorbing harmful gases and trapping fine particles.
Innovation Recognized at National Youth Invention Festival
Kim’s device earned the Presidential Award, the highest honor at the 2026 Youth Invention Festival, which is South Korea’s largest competition for young inventors. Her entry outperformed submissions from older middle and high school students, securing her a prize of 3 million won, approximately $2,120. Kim has stated her intention to donate the funds to support humanitarian efforts in developing nations.
The young inventor acknowledges that while her device does not offer the same level of protection as a professional-grade gas mask, it is intended to provide users with vital minutes to navigate to safety. By attaching the filtration system directly to a mobile phone, she aims to bridge the gap between the onset of a fire and the ability to reach an exit, particularly when traditional safety measures like finding a wet towel are not immediately feasible.
Small School Achieves Significant Success
The success of the invention highlights the achievements of Chilcheon Elementary School, a small institution located on Chilchendo Island. Despite having a student body of only 20 children, the school saw four of its students receive honors at this year’s festival, which featured nearly 7,000 entries. In addition to Kim’s top prize, three other students from the school were awarded gold, silver, and bronze medals.
The Youth Invention Festival, which has been held annually since 1988, serves as a platform for young innovators to present practical solutions to everyday challenges. This year, 183 entries were selected for recognition, with Kim’s fire-safety grip standing out for its focus on personal safety and its integration with ubiquitous modern technology.
