Support for Youth Preparing for Independence After Leaving Facilities
[Asia Economy Reporter Kiho Sung] Soprano Jo Sumi donated a total of 150 million KRW to the Seoul Metropolitan Government for youth preparing for independence, together with the artists who performed at the classical concert "Jo Sumi & Friends" held last Friday.
The donation gained more significance as participating artists who empathized with Jo Sumi's positive influence?Hong Jin-ho (cello), Danny Gu (violin), Gil Byung-min (bass baritone), Song Young-joo (piano), Nari (haegeum), and Choi Young-sun (conductor)?also joined in donating their performance fees.
The donation will be delivered to the "Seoul Child Independence Support Project Group," under the Seoul Metropolitan Government, which supports youth preparing for independence through the Seoul Child Welfare Association. It will be used to assist youth who have left facilities and must stand on their own at a young age.
At the donation ceremony held after the performance, Jo Sumi said, "While music itself provides comfort, I am aware that many young people in our society still face economic difficulties such as food, clothing, and shelter," adding, "We want to offer comfort through music as well as practical help through financial support." She also expressed her joy, saying, "I am glad that all the junior musicians performing together could unite with one heart."
So-young Lee, Chairperson of the Seoul Child Welfare Association (also Director of the Seoul Child Independence Support Project Group), who attended the donation ceremony, expressed gratitude, saying, "Through the meaningful support of soprano Jo Sumi and the musicians, we expect this to be a precious comfort like music to youth preparing for independence who face economic difficulties at the end of the year."
Seoul Metropolitan Government’s Director of Women and Family Policy, Seon-soon Kim, said, "We are grateful that many people, including soprano Jo Sumi, have shown great interest and generous support for youth preparing for independence. The positive influence shown will be a great comfort to these youth and serve as an opportunity to expand awareness that our society must be a pillar they can rely on." She added, "Seoul Metropolitan Government will continue to listen attentively to the voices of youth preparing for independence and do its best to help them grow into healthy members of society."
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