South Korean singer and actress IU has donated 200 million KRW (approximately $136,000) to support victims of the deadly wildfires raging across southeastern South Korea.
The Hope Bridge Korea Disaster Relief Association announced on Wednesday that IU, whose real name is Lee Ji-eun, made a generous contribution to aid wildfire victims and improve conditions for firefighters working in disaster zones. The organization plans to split the donations equally, giving 100 million KRW to support fire victims and the other half to assist firefighters.
"I hope this can provide some relief to those affected, and I extend my deepest sympathies to the victims. I sincerely hope the wildfires are extinguished soon without further casualties," IU said in a statement.
"I would like to express my deepest gratitude for the dedication of the firefighters who are working hard to put them out," she continued.
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This is not the first time IU has contributed to disaster relief efforts. She has previously donated to support flood victims in 2020 and East Coast wildfire relief in 2022. Her ongoing philanthropic efforts have accumulated to over 6 billion KRW (roughly $4.08 million) in publicly disclosed donations.
South Korea is currently grappling with one of the worst wildfire outbreaks in its history, which began last Friday, March 21. As of Wednesday, the fires have claimed at least 24 lives and injured 26 others, most of whom are in their 60s and 70s, according to BBC, citing authorities. The wildfires have also forced over 23,000 people to evacuate their homes.
Approximately 17,398 hectares (42,991 acres) of land were charred, making this the second-largest wildfire in South Korea's history.
The wildfires first sparked in Sancheong county in Northern Gyeongsang. It has since spread across the country's southeastern region, with the most severe fires affecting Uiseong County, which accounts for 87% of the total land burned. The Korea Forest Service said that firefighters are currently battling five active wildfires as of Wednesday morning.
