Kim Hyun Joong donates to Japan disaster victims
It is truly a trying time for the world as we witness the aftermath of the massive devastation caused by the earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan last March 11. As anxiety continues to increase due to the rising death toll and economic effects of the disaster, it is good to hear about those who do their share in helping to alleviate the situation.
Popular hallyu star Kim Hyun Joong ("Boys Over Flowers", "Playful Kiss") has reportedly donated 100 million won, about P3.8 million, to the victims of the Japan disaster. His boss, Bae Yong-Joon ("Winter Sonata", "Dream High") also gave generously. Both stars requested that the money be used to help those in the most afflicted areas.
Kim Hyun Joong's generous gesture is not surprising as this is not the first time he has given to charity. Japan is very dear to Kim Hyun Joong's heart as he has stayed in the country for a long period of time while he was preparing for his Japanese debut with his idol group SS501. Their first Japanese release entitled "Kokoro" performed very well giving them the opportunity to rank on the Oricon chart. SS501 went on to release several Japanese albums including "Lucky Days" and "All My Love".
Kim Hyun Joong has expressed his appreciation for Japanese culture in many ways. When he appeared in the Korean reality show "We Got Married" in 2008, he gave his on-screen "wife" Hwang Bo a thousand origami paper cranes. This gesture is a traditional wedding gift or expression of affection in Japan.
With his high regard and affinity with the Japanese people, Kim Hyun Joong expressed his sadness about the earthquake and tsunami by saying that "My heart hurts so much to hear about this. I hope that everyone stay strong." He is also appealing to everyone to help however they can.
