ATEEZ leader HONGJOONG marked his birthday by turning fandom power into real-world impact.
The “2025 Global 6K” virtual run he led with ATINY (ATEEZ’s official fandom) wrapped with enthusiastic participation from fans around the world.
As the current face of World Vision’s 2025 Global 6K, HONGJOONG launched the “HONGJOONG 6K Special Run” in honor of his Nov. 7 birthday, inviting fans to give back together. After sign-ups opened last month, roughly 4,000 fans at home and abroad ran 6 kilometers anytime, anywhere from Nov. 1-7 and shared their finishes on social media.
Participants received exclusive digital perks―including a HONGJOONG-themed bib, photo card, custom wake-up-call voice recording, running playlist and completion certificate―with social challenges further fueling engagement. This year’s effort also teamed with World Vision Singapore, widening the circle of global fans and local residents taking part.
With an entry fee of 11,700 won per person, the campaign raised a total of 60 million won, which has been donated in full to World Vision. The funds will support clean water access and sanitation improvements for children and communities in Africa.
HONGJOONG has partnered with World Vision since 2022, taking part in a range of initiatives for children in Korea and abroad, including the Dream Wings Club for nurturing kids’ aspirations, support for young family caregivers, and clean water projects in Zambia. Last year, he and about 3,400 fans held their first Global 6K virtual run, donating another \60 million, continuing his ripple effect of kindness.
“Running with fans reminded me once again that ‘together’ makes things possible,” HONGJOONG said, thanking everyone who joined. “I hope this helps, even a little, the children and residents in Africa facing challenges with water and sanitation.”
World Vision Korea President Cho Myunghwan added, “Our heartfelt thanks to HONGJOONG and his fans for once again turning a birthday into an act of giving. We’ll do our utmost to make sure this collective warmth reaches children as hope.”
Photo= World Vision
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)