IU
is a princess in the true sense of the word and none can convince us otherwise. The singer-actress, currently winning praise for her role in Perfect Crown, celebrated her birthday by donating a massive 300 million KRW to charity. After consistently giving back on meaningful occasions for years, IU made the contribution under the name 'IUAENA,' a combination of her name and her fan club, UAENA. Her latest donation will support patients in need, children, elderly citizens living alone, single mothers and people with disabilities. Over the years, IU has built a reputation as one of Korea’s biggest stars as well as one of its most admired philanthropists.
IU donates 300 Million KRW on her birthday
On May 16, IU’s agency EDAM Entertainment officially announced the actress-singer’s latest charitable donation. According to the agency, IU donated a total of 300 million KRW, which is approximately 200,283 USD.The donation was made under the name 'IUAENA,' showing the bond between IU and her devoted fanbase, UAENA. The star has frequently used this combined name while carrying out charitable activities during important occasions such as birthdays, debut anniversaries, and year-end holidays.As per the agency’s statement, 100 million KRW was donated to Asan Medical Center. The remaining amount was distributed among several organisations, with 50 million KRW each going to Walking With Us, Milk Delivery to Check on the Elderly, the Korean Unwed Mothers Families Association and Walk Together.
The funds donated by IU will reportedly be used for multiple humanitarian causes. These include supporting patients facing financial hardships, helping children and teenagers gain access to educational and cultural opportunities, and assisting elderly individuals living alone. The donations will also help vulnerable single-mother households and provide advanced assistive devices for people with disabilities.
IU’s long history of philanthropy
This is far from the first time IU has made headlines for her generosity. Earlier this month, she donated 100 million KRW on Children’s Day to support children and teenagers. Last year alone, IU reportedly donated 200 million KRW toward wildfire recovery efforts and improving firefighters’ working conditions in Korea’s southeastern regions. She also made additional donations on Children’s Day, her birthday, debut anniversary and at the end of the year. On Children's Day (May 5) this year, she also donated 50 million KRW to the Korea Child Welfare Association.
Since making her debut in 2008, IU has consistently used milestone occasions to spread kindness through donations and volunteer support. Her reputation as one of South Korea’s most generous celebrities earned her recognition in 2019 when she became the youngest honoree on Forbes Asia’s 30 Heroes of Philanthropy list.Apart from financial support, IU has also received praise for personally writing handwritten letters and preparing gifts for child actors she has worked with on various projects.