Korean Star Park Kyung-lim Donates Over $150,000 to Support Youth Dreams

Park Kyung-lim, a celebrated South Korean entertainer, has donated over 200 million won (approximately $150,000) to support the dreams of young people. Known for winning the MC category at the Brand of the Year Awards for three consecutive years, Park has captivated audiences with her warmth and wit as a host for film and drama press conferences, as well as on SBS's 'Our Ballad'.

Earlier this year, Park took on the role of Creative Director for the musical 'Again Dream High', marking another venture into new territory. She has expressed her aspiration to become a 'Dream Helper', stating, "During the times when I had nothing but dreams and passion, I was always grateful for the support and love from the public and those around me. Now, I want to be a 'Dream Helper' to ensure that others don't tire in their pursuit of their dreams."

Park invited around 1,000 children from complex crisis families and young adults preparing for independence to the musical, in which she also played the role of a principal. This was done in collaboration with the international children's rights NGO 'Save the Children' and the Seoul Metropolitan Government's 'Young Plus' agency. In November, she further donated an additional 100 million won to 'Young Plus' to support youth transitioning out of care in pursuing their dreams.

Since 2006, Park has served as an ambassador for Save the Children, earning recognition for her contributions with a Presidential Commendation at the Children's Day ceremony hosted by the Ministry of Health and Welfare this year.

Beyond the 200 million won raised through Save the Children's 'Iri Iri Bazaar', Park donated the entire 170 million won proceeds from the 'Park Go Tae Project' album sales to the Beautiful Foundation. She also contributed 100 million won to Cheil General Hospital in Seoul for the surgery and treatment of critically ill newborns. Her continuous acts of giving have earned her a reputation as a 'donation angel', comparable to figures like Jang Na-ra and IU.

According to her agency, With Dream Company, while the musical 'Dream High' will conclude with its 2025 season 2, Park plans to continue offering 'joyful comfort and warm support' through various projects. She remains active as a host for film and drama press conferences and on shows like SBS's 'Our Ballad', Channel A's 'Best Friends Documentary - Four-Person Table', and 'The World Seen Through the Body, Amor Fati'.

Lee So-jung, Ten Asia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr