Which person has the greatest influence on your life at the present time and why?

At every phase in life, there will always be a person that has an effect on our character, development and behaviour. That individual could affect how we treat others, our decisions and our habits. Bang Yong Guk, a twenty-seven years old man, is from a South Korean boy band called ' B.A.P '. As a teenager, transitioning from childhood to adulthood, he has the greatest influence on my physical and mental maturation at present time.

Having good leadership qualities, he makes me strive to be the best leader I can in a project or group. Normally the calm one, he assesses the situation and deals with the problem at hand. Once, two of the members were arguing about a dance choreography. They had misunderstood each other and were saying the same thing. Yong Guk, realising this, explained it to both of them. The effort and time taken to understand and explain the misconception between them is one of the examples of his leadership skills. Currently, I am a representative of my school's Drama Society. Hence, this quality and his influence on me is important to help me improve any communication problems and handle situations calmly.

Despite needing to be cautious in his words, Yong Guk stands firm in his beliefs. As an idol, he is constantly being monitored by the company, media and general public. One small mistake could lead to very serious consequences. In 2014, there was a Sewol Ferry Incident on 16th of April. This incident emotionally disturbed the nation as it involved the deaths of students and adults. Yong Guk wrote about the incidents in his recent song, "Ribbon In The Sky', subtly criticising the Government for the lack of response to the situation. As a teenager, sometimes I succumb to peer pressure and lose sight of my beliefs. His action reminds me to always do what feels right and never abandon my opinions regardless of my position with consideration.

In addition, Yong Guk cares a lot about childhood education. He sponsors children every month. One child from World Vision Organisation, called Mim from Bangladesh, was able to benefit from his actions. She was able to attend elementary school which gives her an opportunity for a better life. For more than five years, he is a registered member of organisations in both Korea and overseas that provide support to children. In 2014, it was revealed in a lawsuit that each member, including Yong Guk, only earned about US$100 in the 2 years they worked. The fact that he earned so little and still gives so much, influences me to always be grateful for my education. As I decide what course to go for to further my education, he impelled my decision to be a childhood educator.

Having such mental and moral qualities and caring about things that are important, Yong Guk no doubt has the greatest influence at present time. Soon, I have to move into the next chapter of my life when decisions shape my future. In this time of uncertainty, his influence on me would greatly affect my behaviour in the workforce, my aspirations and me as a person.