SEVENTEEN and other K-pop idols donated to help victims of South Korea’s devastating wildfire. The fires, which began in March 2025, have destroyed over 48,000 hectares (118,610 acres), causing loss of life and property. Public response to SEVENTEEN’s donation was mostly positive, with many praising their generosity.
2025 South Korea Wildfires Cause Unprecedented Damage
On March 14, 2025, a massive wildfire broke out in Cheongdo, spreading across the Yeongnam region. More than 48,000 hectares (118,610 acres) of forest have burned, making this the largest and most devastating wildfire in South Korea. The disaster has resulted in 28 deaths, 30 injuries, and extensive property damage.
SEVENTEEN Supports Wildfire Victims with Major Donation
As the number of wildfire victims rises, K-pop idols are stepping up to help. SEVENTEEN donated KRW 1 billion (approximately USD 750,000) to assist those affected in Ulsan, Gyeongbuk, and Gyeongnam. Through the Hope Bridge Korea Disaster Relief Association, the group expressed deep condolences and hoped to provide some relief. SEVENTEEN has a history of philanthropy, consistently supporting marginalized communities and disaster recovery efforts worldwide.
Hope Bridge Secretary-General Shin Hoon thanked SEVENTEEN for the generous donation, ensuring the funds would be used transparently to help victims rebuild their lives.
More K-Pop Stars Join the Cause
IVE donated KRW 200 million (approximately USD 150,000) to support wildfire victims and firefighters. The group expressed gratitude to those working on the front lines and wished to aid people affected by the sudden disaster.
NCT’s Mark contributed KRW 100 million (approximately USD 75,000) to recovery efforts in Gyeongbuk, Gyeongnam, and Ulsan. He expressed hope that wildfire victims and firefighters would return to normal life soon. Mark, a member of the Hope Bridge Honors Club, has a history of donating anonymously.
LE SSERAFIM, OH MY GIRL’s Arin, ZEROBASEONE’s Kim Jiwoong, and soloist Lee Mi-joo also made significant contributions, further demonstrating the K-pop industry’s commitment to disaster relief.
SEVENTEEN Wildfire Donation Sparks Online Discussion
SEVENTEEN’s KRW 1 billion donation became a hot topic on MLBPARK, a popular online community. Many praised the generosity, while some were surprised by the group’s financial capacity. Fans highlighted SEVENTEEN’s strong international popularity, especially in Southeast Asia, as a key factor in their earnings.
Some netizens calculated that dividing the donation among 13 members results in approximately KRW 70 million (around USD 52,500) per member. While some framed this as an attempt to downplay their contribution, the majority defended SEVENTEEN’s goodwill and discouraged negative discussions.
Wildfire Donations from SEVENTEEN and Major Corporations
Major corporations also made significant contributions. Samsung donated KRW 3 billion (approximately USD 2.25 million), and Hyundai Motor Company contributed KRW 2 billion (approximately USD 1.5 million). Compared to these corporate donations, SEVENTEEN’s KRW 1 billion stands out, as it came from individual artists rather than a global company.
Though a few people attempted to diminish the significance of celebrity donations, public sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive. Many appreciate both individual and corporate contributions, recognizing the collective effort to help South Korea recover from this devastating wildfire.

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Wow, big wildfires in South Korea! Wildfires are a huge disaster in the US too. Hoping for rain to put them out ASAP. Sending good vibes!