BTS member Jimin/Courtesy of BigHit Entertainment

Idol star uses wealth to do good

Some Korean stars are embroiled in drug allegations and sex scandals to undermine the popularity of K-pop. But some show a stark contrast by offering helping hands to those in need.

The Busan Metropolitan Office of Education announced this week that BTS member Jimin donated 100 million won ($85,000) to help underprivileged students in the port city.

Jimin’s father delivered the contribution fee to the chief of the education office in Busan where the 23-year-old superstar grew up.

The financial contribution will be used to help students from low-income families at 16 different schools in Busan.

This is not the first time for Jimin to carry out philanthropic work for students in his hometown. Previously, he funded uniforms for graduating students of his alma mater and sent BTS signed CDs.

Jimin’s sublime act seems to affect his fans.

Last October, the Korean Red Cross sent a letter of appreciation to Jimin as his fans organized a campaign of donating their blood in time with Jimin’s 23rd birthday.

More than 750 fans took part in the campaign. In addition, they contributed thousands of souvenirs to encourage future blood donors.

And the good-will activities positively affect his popularity, too.

According to the Korea Institute of Corporate Reputation, Jimin was picked as the top idol star last month by scoring 15.8 million points, up 14.78 percent from a month ago.

He beat his band-mate Jungkook who got 11.7 million points to take the second place.

“With regard to Jimin, people talked about such issues as YouTube, ARMY, and donation,” said an official from the institute.

The institution complies related data including media attention and comments on social networking sites on a monthly basis to select the best idol stars.

 

Related stories

Jimin of BTS tops idol rank

The world welcomes BTS comeback

 
키워드
이 기사를 공유합니다
Copyright © The Korea News Plus