K-Pop Stars Unite to Support Fire Victims in Ulsan and Gyeongbuk

In response to the devastating wildfires affecting Ulsan, Gyeongbuk, and Gyeongnam, the South Korean entertainment industry has come together to offer support and donations. As the wildfires continue to spread, with significant damage reported in Uiseong, various celebrities have voiced their condolences and hopes for a swift recovery for those impacted.

On March 27, the Hope Bridge National Disaster Relief Association and the Korean Red Cross reported ongoing donations from the entertainment sector. Notably, the K-pop group SEVENTEEN made headlines with a remarkable donation of 1 billion KRW, the largest single contribution from the industry. They expressed their desire to help those affected by the fires and extended their condolences to the victims.

The girl group IVE also contributed, with all members collectively donating 200 million KRW to support wildfire victims and improve firefighter conditions. BTS members J-Hope and Suga each donated 100 million KRW, further inspiring others to contribute.

Entertainment companies have also stepped up, with JYP Entertainment donating 500 million KRW and SM Entertainment contributing 300 million KRW.

Other artists, including singer Lyn, Kim Sejeong from I.O.I and gugudan, Mijoo from Lovelyz, Junho from 2PM, actress Suzy, Jinwoo from WINNER, and many more have donated amounts ranging from tens of millions to 100 million KRW.

Celebrity couples have also joined the effort, with Lee Hyori and Lee Sang-soon donating 100 million KRW and 20 million KRW, respectively. Other couples, including Shin Min-a and Kim Woo-bin, Lee Sang-woo and Kim So-yeon, and IU and Lee Jong-suk, have also made contributions.

The Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters reported that the simultaneous wildfires that began on March 21 have resulted in 26 fatalities and forced nearly 29,911 residents to evacuate from the most affected areas, Uiseong and Andong. As of 5 AM on the same day, the total area of forest damage was recorded at 36,009 hectares, surpassing the previous record set by the 2000 East Coast wildfires, which affected 23,794 hectares.