"Save Me School" Campaign Launched to Build Korean Diaspora Alternative School

Save Me School Campaign Promotional Image

On April 30, Korea Habitat, an international nonprofit organization focused on housing welfare, announced the launch of the "Save Me School" campaign to support the construction of the nation's first international alternative school for the Korean diaspora.

By participating in the campaign, supporters can donate 1,937 won in remembrance of the year 1937, when the forced migration of the Korean diaspora took place. They can also download the "Habitat Korean Diaspora Font," created from the handwriting of model Park Yuri, who is of Korean diaspora descent, and students of Korean diaspora background. The students' handwriting symbolizes the language and identity that were preserved even during the era when the use and teaching of Korean were banned under Stalin's regime in an attempt to erase Korean identity, giving the font special significance.

Participants can create a "one-day student ID" on the campaign website and leave messages of support using the handwritten font. Through a monthly SNS (social networking service) certification event, participants will be entered into a drawing to receive the novel "Beomdo," which tells the story of Korean independence activist Hong Beomdo, as well as a "Save Me School" figure block.

Funds raised through the campaign will be used for the construction of Korea's first international alternative school for the Korean diaspora. Korea Habitat plans to establish a boarding school with a capacity of 150 students, including 40 triple-occupancy dormitory rooms, seven classrooms, a cafeteria, and more.

Korea Habitat Korean Diaspora International Alternative School Construction Plan

Campaign model Park Yuri shared her thoughts: "I believe that the Korean diaspora are Koreans, part of the Korean people, and my roots. I joined this campaign to support the students, and I hope it will serve as an opportunity for more people to learn about the Korean diaspora."

Jennie of BLACKPINK previously donated 100 million won in the name of her fan club BLINK, while singer Sean contributed 65 million won to support Korean diaspora youth. The "Save Me School" campaign is open for participation on the Korea Habitat website.

According to Korea Habitat, the current alternative school for Korean diaspora youth settled in Korea, which serves about 50 students, is in extremely poor condition, with only a single unisex restroom available. The environment is unsuitable for communal living, and the school has not received official accreditation, so students' academic achievements are not formally recognized. Despite having to work part-time jobs to support themselves, Korean diaspora students have a 99% attendance rate, demonstrating a strong desire to learn. There are more than 100 prospective students waiting for admission, but due to limited facilities and space, it is currently impossible to accommodate them all.