BTS member V has generously donated 200 million KRW (approximately 136,277 USD) to assist in the recovery efforts following the devastating wildfires. The Korean Red Cross confirmed on March 31 that V's donation will be divided, with 100 million KRW (around 68,138 USD) assigned to helping wildfire victims and the other 100 million KRW going towards enhancing working conditions for firefighters.
V conveyed his deep admiration, emphasizing his sympathy for those impacted by the sudden disaster and the courageous firefighters, emergency response teams, and volunteers at the frontline. He shared that while serving in the military, he felt saddened when hearing about the wildfires during evening roll call, especially worrying about fellow soldiers' families who might have been affected. Despite the containment of the fires, V expressed his hope for no further casualties and emphasized his desire for his contribution to offer even a modest assistance.
Kim Chul Soo, the President of the Korean Red Cross, expressed appreciation for V's significant donation, underscoring its importance in safeguarding people's safety and lives. He assured that the donation will be utilized transparently and responsibly to effectively support both the wildfire victims and firefighters.
The wildfire that broke out in North Gyeongsang Province on March 22 was fully extinguished by the 28th, and the blaze in South Gyeongsang was contained by 1 p.m. on the 30th after burning for ten days. The tragic wildfires resulted in 30 fatalities, 9 severe injuries, and 36 minor injuries, totaling 75 casualties. A considerable number of facilities, amounting to 6,452, were damaged, with North Gyeongsang bearing the brunt of the destruction (6,336 cases), followed by South Gyeongsang (84), Ulsan (30), and Muju (2).
The affected area encompasses 48,238.61 hectares, equivalent to roughly 64,059 soccer fields.