As search efforts continue following the Nov. 26 high-rise blaze in Hong Kong, the death toll has climbed to 94. Across the K-pop world, major players are stepping up with cross-border relief.
HYBE Music Group’s APAC division―spanning BigHit Music, BELIFT LAB, Source Music, Pledis Entertainment, KOZ Entertainment, and ADOR―has donated 500 million KRW to the Hope Bridge Korea Disaster Relief Association to support those affected by the tragedy. In a statement, the labels offered “deepest condolences to those who sadly lost their lives” and “heartfelt comfort to everyone grieving,” adding hopes for a swift recovery in the impacted area. The funds will be directed, in partnership with a Hong Kong nonprofit, to aid bereaved families of the victims.
Yoo Dong-ju, head of HYBE Music Group APAC, said, “We extend our deepest condolences and sympathy to everyone affected by the fire. We hope this contribution offers even a small measure of help during a difficult time and that recovery comes quickly.”
SM Entertainment has also contributed HK$1 million to the Hong Kong Red Cross to support firefighting, relief efforts, and essential supplies―on top of individual donations from artists including aespa and RIIZE, who joined the wave of giving.
YG Entertainment likewise made a donation in the wake of the disaster. In a message on Weibo, YG said it was “deeply saddened by the extensive loss of life and homes” and expressed respect for those who bravely stepped in to help, announcing a HK$1 million contribution for emergency relief and recovery.
The fire broke out around 2:52 p.m. on Nov. 26 at a 32-story residential complex in the Tai Po area of northern Hong Kong. The development comprises eight buildings and houses approximately 4,800 residents across 2,000 units.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)