K-pop giant Hybe has donated 500 million won to support victims of a deadly apartment fire in Hong Kong. Other artists and companies in the industry have contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars, sparking a wave of aid across Asia. The fire, which started on Wednesday, has killed at least 55 people with around 280 still unaccounted for.
A large-scale fire at the Wang Fuk Court apartment complex in Hong Kong, which broke out on Wednesday, has caused severe casualties. Hong Kong authorities reported at least 55 deaths and around 280 people still unaccounted for.
The K-pop industry responded swiftly to the tragedy. Hybe Music Group APAC, overseeing six affiliated labels including BigHit Music, Belift Lab, and Source Music, contributed 500 million won (US$341,390) to the Hope Bridge Korea Disaster Relief Association. The funds will be used in cooperation with a Hong Kong nonprofit to aid affected families. Hybe CEO Yu Dong-ju said in a statement, "We offer our deepest condolences to all those impacted by the tragedy." He added, "We hope our donation brings some comfort and helps speed up recovery efforts."
Girl group (G)I-DLE donated 1 million yuan ($141,235) through China's Fosun Foundation. Chinese member Yuqi wrote on social media Wednesday, "I hope everyone remains safe and sound."
YG Entertainment announced a donation of 1 million Hong Kong dollars ($128,483) in emergency relief funds via its official Weibo account. GOT7 member Jackson Wang gave 1 million Hong Kong dollars under his clothing label Team Wang to the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals Foundation. A Hong Kong native, Wang posted information on local shelters and appealed to followers to ensure that "everyone in need, including animals, receives proper assistance."
Earlier, SM Entertainment donated 1 million Hong Kong dollars to the Hong Kong Red Cross for firefighting, rescue, and daily support. Its groups aespa and Riize contributed 500,000 and 250,000 Hong Kong dollars, respectively. Aespa said through their official Weibo, "We express our deepest sorrow regarding this heartbreaking news." They added, "We hope this small contribution can help, and we pray for everyone's safety." Riize expressed hope that their donation would support rescue operations and follow-up assistance.
These contributions highlight a wave of support from across Asia for the Hong Kong fire victims.
