Recently appearing on JTBC's 'Newsroom,' Kim Jaejoong shared that he keeps himself busy even on his days off, creating work for himself. He recalled the pain he felt when his activities were limited due to environmental issues in the past, which drives him to stay active.
Despite his hectic schedule, Kim Jaejoong is committed to philanthropy and volunteer work. He has been involved in various charitable activities, including donating album sales proceeds, coal briquette volunteering, and kimchi-making volunteer work. His significant involvement in volunteer work began in 2013 through a collaboration with UNICEF, which started during his role as an ambassador for the Korea-Japan Exchange Comprehensive Exhibition.
Recently, he visited the Valenzuela region north of Manila, Philippines, with UNICEF. Kim Jaejoong reported that the area suffers from frequent floods and typhoons due to climate change. He stated, "Children are repeatedly exposed to sewage due to flooding, suffering from infectious diseases, and there is a lack of infrastructure and economic conditions to treat these illnesses, creating a vicious cycle." He emphasized the urgent need for help for many families and children.
He pointed out the lack of infrastructure as the most severe issue. In the face of ongoing damage, children are taking on adult responsibilities, and schools are being used as temporary shelters rather than educational spaces.
Kim Jaejoong shared, "The simple yet significant dream for these children is to have a safe space where they can smile and eat." He explained that the primary purpose of this activity was to share and raise awareness of their desperate situation worldwide.
When asked about the dreams of the children he met, Kim Jaejoong noted that many of them admired their teachers the most, aside from their families. He was impressed by their determination to protect their school bags and notebooks over their own bodies during natural disasters.
He was deeply moved by their ability to maintain smiles and gratitude despite dire circumstances, appreciating having a roof to shield them from rain and a job to provide a meal.
Reflecting on the meaning of charity and volunteer work, Kim Jaejoong said, "Visiting and meeting friends in need, offering my talents, and empathizing with them has taught me so much." He defined these moments as mutual transformations that go beyond changing someone's life, emphasizing the reciprocal relationship of sharing strength, courage, and heart.
Approaching his forties, Kim Jaejoong expressed his hopes for a more serene decade, saying, "There were many waves in my thirties, but I hope for gentler waves in my forties." He concluded the interview by stating his dream of returning to 'Newsroom' with even more remarkable achievements.
Previously, Kim Jaejoong discussed his finances on Joo Woo-jae's YouTube channel, mentioning, "I would need about 1 trillion won if I were to sell and buy properties and cars." He added, "It's impossible to earn that much, and the structure doesn't allow it."
Reporter Chaeryeong Lim, TenAsia syjj426@tenasia.co.kr