As Hong Kong reels from a catastrophic high-rise blaze in Tai Po, K-pop stars are stepping up with donations and messages of support for victims and their families.
Search efforts for the missing entered a third day after the Nov. 26 fire at a 31-story apartment complex. As of 9 a.m. on Nov. 28 local time, at least 94 people had been confirmed dead, with many more injured or unaccounted for.
Hong Kong-born GOT7 member JACKSON, together with his fashion label Team Wang Design, donated HK$1 million to the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals. “This tragic event has brought immense loss and hardship to the community. We stand with everyone affected during this difficult time,” they said in a statement.
I-DLE also expressed condolences, donating CNY 1 million via the Fosun Foundation to support relief and rebuilding. Chinese member YUQI wrote on social media on Nov. 26, “I hope everyone stays safe,” adding a prayer emoji.
SM Entertainment announced via Chinese social media that it would donate HK$1 million to the Hong Kong Red Cross. Label groups aespa and RIIZE contributed separately, pledging HK$500,000 and HK$250,000, respectively.
On Weibo, aespa wrote, “Our hearts are broken by this news. We hope our small contribution helps, and we pray for everyone’s safety.” RIIZE added, “We want to support rescue efforts and follow-up aid. Wishing peace to all.”
YG Entertainment likewise pledged HK$1 million for emergency relief and recovery. “We are deeply saddened by the loss of life and widespread damage caused by the large-scale fire in Hong Kong,” the company said. “We extend our sincere condolences to the victims and our deepest respect to everyone risking their safety in rescue efforts.”
Meanwhile, with many K-pop acts set to attend the 2025 MAMA Awards at Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Stadium on Nov. 28-29, organizer CJ ENM said the ceremony will proceed as scheduled while adding a “Support Hong Kong” message and coordinating donations to aid victims.
To honor those affected, the MAMA Awards will cancel the planned red carpet and scale back scripts and ancillary segments to maintain a subdued, respectful tone.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)