The Kochon Foundation, established by Lee Chong-kun, the late chairman and founder of Korean pharmaceutical firm Chong Kun Dang in 1973, announced Desmond Tutu TB Center in South Africa as the 7th Kochon Prize winner Tuesday.

Officials said that the prize recognizes contributions by the tuberculosis research institute to public heath and the medical environment in South Africa by leading its drive to build systematic health systems and educate its people about the prevention of the disease.

The award ceremony will be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Tuesday, during the 43rd World Conference of the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease.

The Kochon Prize was established in 2006 jointly by the foundation and Stop TB Partnership, an international anti-tuberculosis cooperation body of the World Health Organization, to sponsor individuals or groups who contribute to efforts to eliminate TB and AIDS.

The winner will receive $100,000, including the prize money.

By Chun Sung-woo  (swchun@heraldcorp.com)