K-POP Stars Step Up to Assist in Relief Efforts for Korea’s Worst Ever Forest Fire Disaster

Korea’s entertainment industry has launched full-scale efforts to recover from the worst forest fire disaster in the country’s history. Following the fire that started on March 21, which resulted in 28 deaths and left around 30,000 people displaced, K-POP idols and drama actors are joining the donation drive. The contributions from BTS members stand out the most. Jungkook donated 1 billion won to the Hope Bridge Korea Disaster Relief Association, while RM, J-Hope, and SUGA each contributed 100 million won. Jungkook expressed his hope that the funds would provide “a small amount of help to those who are suffering through exhausting times.” SEVENTEEN also donated 1 billion won, issuing a statement saying they “extend deep condolences to the victims and those enduring difficult times.” G-DRAGON contributed 300 million won and sent a message wishing that “continued support will be available for those who lost their homes due to this unexpected disaster.” BLACKPINK’s Jennie donated 100 million won to Hope Bridge, while Jisoo donated 150 million won to the Korean Red Cross. Members of NCT also participated extensively in the fundraising efforts. Ten members, including Jaemin (150 million won), Taeyong, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Mark, and Jeno (each 100 million won), Jungwoo, Johnny, Haechan, and Jisung (each 50 million won), contributed funds. Additionally, dozens of K-POP stars such as SEULGI of RED VELVET, Jihyo, Nayeon, and Dahyun of TWICE, IVE’s Karina and Winter, ATEEZ, SUPER JUNIOR’s Eunhyuk, SHINee’s Key, Girls’ Generation’s Taeyeon, NewJeans, RIIZE, LE SSERAFIM, and ZEROBASEONE’s Jiung contributed between 50 million won and over 200 million won each. The donation campaign from the entertainment industry has also extended to actors. Leading stars from K-drama series such as Jichang-wook, Byun Woo-seok, IU, Kim Woo-bin, Shin Min-ah, Go Min-si, Han Ji-min, Kim Soo-hyun, Suzy, Jung Hae-in, Lee Jong-suk, and Im Yoon-ah rushed to donate after hearing about the disaster. The fire spread rapidly across the eastern region due to strong winds and dry weather. Temples in Uiseong City, with a 1,300-year history, and the Manhyujeong pavilion in Andong were destroyed, and there are concerns that the Manhyujeong pavilion, famous as a filming location for the drama “Mr. Sunshine,” may also have been ruined. As of now, approximately 8,000 people are living in temporary shelters.