RIP Halloween 2023: South Korea’s Itaewon Tragedy Leaves a Aftermath of Hope
Last Saturday, Oct 29, the lively Halloween scene in Itaewon turned into a gut‑shaking disaster. For almost a week, the nation mourned as officials declared a period of national loss that will last until Nov 5. Yet, amid the somber atmosphere, heart‑warming stories of strangers lending a hand have brightened a fierce winter.
From the Big Screen to the Real World: Actress Lee Young‑ae Steps Up
Lee Young‑ae—known for “Jewel in the Palace” (2003) and “Lady Vengeance” (2007)—has put her star power to work. She is quietly listed on the Korea Foundation for Persons with Disabilities’ website as the head of a cultural advisory committee, but now she’s also donating 7 million won (≈ $6,900) to bring back the body of a victim to his hometown in Russia.
- Victim: Juliana Park, 25‑year‑old Koryo‑saram (Soviet‑era Korean descent)
- Donation announced: Nov 2, via a public statement on the foundation’s site
- Lee said, “I wish to help Mr Park and his family who are unable to return to their home country due to financial difficulties.”
It’s just one of the many ways Lee has turned generosity into action. In March, the actress gave 100 million won to aid children battling cancer or rare disorders. Not long ago, she pledged another 100 million won for Covid‑19 pediatric patients and medical staff—her “big hearts” budget knows no bounds.
Why “Camping on the Brain” Women Should Look Up to Lee
Some might wonder: why fix a tragic event with money? Lee sees it as a chance to put the “amour in a new wave.” By giving up so much, she uncovers the secret that, in Korea, the film industry doesn’t just dabble in drama—it feels it deeply.
- Emotion, empathy, and generosity play in the same theater.
- Her numbers pay for the village’s funeral… when home was out of reach.
More than a Giver: The Power of Community
The people in online threads—both murdered and resilient—have made it clear that community is the strongest (super)hero. Simple acts of compassion and care continue to paint a vivid picture for a common sense that we can all vote for partying with an open heart—if we have a standard to look forward to again.
New Resources – “Donate Like a Donor” Tip
Tip: if you’re in a rush, you can use different rewards, should it successfully receive new items.
Last year, with baseball on the UET, Lee emphasized the training of young people, spelling recognition and body regard with the radar!
