Hankyung Association Donates 500 Million Won in Aid for Wildfire Damage

The business community has stepped up to support the recovery efforts following the large-scale wildfire damage in the Yeongnam region.

On the 30th, the Korea Business Association announced that it had donated 500 million won to the Korean Red Cross to assist the bereaved families and disaster victims affected by the wildfire. These funds will be used to support the livelihoods, medical care, and housing of the families of the firefighters who died during the suppression efforts and the disaster victims.

The Korea Business Association sent an official letter titled “Request for Cooperation for the Prompt Recovery of Wildfire-Affected Areas” to its member companies, asking for participation in various forms such as donations, emergency relief supplies, and support for recovery personnel and equipment. Additionally, volunteer teams composed of executives and employees will be dispatched to the affected areas including Uiseong, Andong, and Yeongdeok in Gyeongbuk to participate in recovery activities.

Ryu Jin, chairman of the Korea Business Association, expressed, “We extend our deepest condolences to those who lost their lives and their families in the worst wildfire in history,” adding, “The business community will do its utmost to support the national disaster recovery efforts.”

Companies are also providing support tailored to their industry characteristics. The telecommunications sector is offering wireless internet and mobile phone charging services at temporary shelters for disaster victims, while the apparel industry has delivered clothing, blankets, and other daily necessities.

The machinery industry has deployed vehicles such as washing and disinfection equipment and excavators, and the automotive industry is offering discounts on repair costs for damaged vehicles and providing recovery support vehicles for firefighters. The food and distribution sectors are supplying ready-to-eat meals and essential daily goods, and the financial industry is implementing emergency funding support and deferring credit card payments.

The home appliance industry is providing free repairs for appliances damaged by the fire and supplying TVs and air purifiers to temporary shelters. The information technology sector has launched fundraising campaigns using online donation platforms, and the pharmaceutical industry is supplying medicines and operating pharmacies at the disaster sites.

A representative from the Korea Business Association stated, “The business community is delivering practical assistance to residents in the affected areas by leveraging the capabilities and resources of each industry,” and added, “We hope these efforts will bring a small ray of hope to those who have experienced this disaster.”