CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- It's an area of downtown Charleston that hasn't always had a good reputation, but it's undergone a big transformation. Some folks says it's all thanks to one man.

"You never knew what you were going to see out here from trash to cigarettes to even people who linger. They don't linger as much with him cleaning up," Angela Mayfield with the American Heart Association said.

Kwan Cho is now a staple along Brawley Walkway in Charleston. His family opened up Town Beauty Supply and Fashion about a year ago. Even in his seventies, he spends a lot of time sweeping and doing all the landscaping. Not only does he keep his business looking good, but he takes out the trash and cleans windows for his neighbors up and down the area.

"Someone actually went out of their way to stop him and thank him for what he was doing. I thought that was nice. Total strangers, this is a great way to interact with the people in the community," Dave Jordan with the American Heart Association said.

That's why Mr. Cho has been nominated for this week's WSAZ Hometown Hero. As a native of Korea, it took some translation from his grandson for him to fully understand the achievement.

It's all about pride for Mr. Cho, because he appreciates the opportunities America has given him.

"You know he came from North Korea. He escaped North Korea to come to South Korea. His own family member, his sister was trying to kill him," Jimmy Jun, Mr. Cho's grandson said.

That's why he became an ally to the U.S. military during the Korean War. He's been a fan of his freedom ever since.

"He could not be replaced, even a person on payroll or charity couldn't do it," Jordan said.

He's a modest man with a history of devotion to his country, who is now on a mission to make his state and Charleston a better place for everyone.