In a touching display of empathy and social responsibility, Kim Ji-woong, a member of the rising K-pop sensation ZEROBASEONE (ZB1), has made headlines for his 10 million KRW (approximately $10,000) donation to support victims affected by the recent floods in South Korea.
His generous contribution, made through the Hope Bridge Korea Disaster Relief Association, reflects the growing trend among young idols who use their influence to promote kindness and solidarity in times of national crisis.
The donation was announced on August 19, 2025, shortly after heavy rains devastated parts of the Seoul metropolitan area, leaving many people displaced and in need of urgent assistance.
Background: From Humble Beginnings to Stardom
Kim Ji-woong’s journey in the entertainment industry is a story of perseverance and resilience.
He first debuted in 2016 as a member of the now-disbanded boy group INX, but his early career was marked by challenges and limited recognition. Refusing to give up, Ji-woong continued to pursue his passion for music and performing.
Kim Ji-woong (Credit: YouTube)
His breakthrough came in 2023, when he appeared on Mnet’s hit survival show ‘Boys Planet’, a global audition program that gathered talented trainees from across the world.
His hard work, charm, and emotional sincerity earned him a spot in ZEROBASEONE, one of K-pop’s most promising fourth-generation groups.
Since then, Ji-woong has become known not only for his vocal skills and stage charisma but also for his humble and kind personality.
The Donation: Spreading Warmth Amid Tragedy
According to the Hope Bridge Korea Disaster Relief Association, Kim Ji-woong personally decided to contribute after learning about the severe flooding that affected residents in Seoul and nearby regions.
His 10 million KRW donation aims to provide immediate relief and recovery support to those who lost homes and livelihoods due to the natural disaster.
Ji-woong shared a heartfelt message through his agency, expressing deep sorrow for those impacted by the floods.
He said he hoped his contribution would “help families rebuild and return to their daily lives.”
His empathy demonstrates the sense of responsibility many K-pop idols feel toward their communities, serving as a reminder that fame can be used for meaningful causes.
This isn’t the first time Ji-woong has extended his hand in support of those in need.
Earlier in March 2025, he donated funds to aid wildfire victims in the Ulsan, Gyeongbuk, and Gyeongnam regions, further solidifying his reputation as a socially conscious artist who acts promptly when tragedy strikes.
Recognition and Gratitude from Hope Bridge
Shin Hoon, the Secretary-General of Hope Bridge, expressed sincere gratitude for Kim Ji-woong’s thoughtful act, saying,
“We deeply appreciate Kim Ji-woong’s warm heart and his efforts to spread positive influence to the public. Hope Bridge will continue to do its utmost to help affected neighbors return to their daily lives as soon as possible.”
Kim Ji-woong (Credit: YouTube)
Hope Bridge, established in 1961 by national media and civic organizations, is the only legally recognized disaster relief organization in South Korea.
It plays a vital role in emergency response, fundraising, community rebuilding, and assistance for vulnerable groups.
The association has been instrumental in mobilizing support and distributing over 190,000 relief items to affected families following the recent floods.
Their operations also include laundry services, mobile kitchens, and mental recovery vehicles for displaced residents.
The Larger Picture: The Power of Celebrity Influence
Kim Ji-woong’s donation carries significance beyond the monetary value. As a young and popular idol with millions of fans, his actions inspire others—especially younger generations—to engage in acts of kindness and social contribution.
In the age of social media, where idols’ lives are closely followed, such positive gestures create a ripple effect that encourages fans to participate in charitable activities themselves.
This growing culture of philanthropy among K-pop stars demonstrates the evolving role of celebrities in modern society.
No longer limited to performing on stage, many idols now act as agents of change, using their platforms to raise awareness about environmental issues, mental health, and humanitarian efforts.
A Lasting Message of Hope
Kim Ji-woong’s compassionate donation is a powerful example of how empathy and generosity can make a difference in times of hardship.
His willingness to act swiftly and quietly shows a genuine concern for people’s well-being—a quality that endears him even more to fans and the public alike.
As South Korea continues its recovery efforts, his contribution will undoubtedly bring comfort and support to those most affected by the floods.
Beyond his music and performances, Kim Ji-woong’s legacy as an artist is also being built on kindness, humanity, and the belief that even small acts of compassion can create lasting waves of change.
In a country known for its world-dominating K-pop industry, one group is making history in a completely different way.
Big Ocean, a South Korean boy band that debuted in April 2024, is breaking barriers as the first K-pop group composed entirely of members with hearing disabilities.
The trio — PJ, Jiseok, and Chanyeon — are using innovative technology, sign language, and sheer determination to prove that music truly transcends sound.
Their story, highlighted by the Associated Press and Young Post Club in June 2025, showcases how technology and inclusion can come together to change the future of global entertainment.
Meet the Members: Stories of Strength and Purpose
Each member of Big Ocean brings a unique background and inspiring story to the group:
- PJ, the group’s leader, first gained recognition as a YouTuber and disability advocate, creating content that educated viewers about the experiences of people with hearing loss. His influence helped normalize discussions about disability in Korea’s entertainment industry.
- Chanyeon previously worked as a healthcare professional specializing in hearing loss and balance, giving him firsthand understanding of the challenges and potential of technology in assisting people with disabilities.
- Jiseok was a professional ski racer, showing that his competitive spirit and precision carried over into his life as a performer.
Big Ocean (Credit: YouTube)
Together, the trio represents more than just musical talent — they embody resilience, awareness, and the courage to innovate in an industry that often prizes perfection over diversity.
Redefining Music Through Technology
Performing without hearing may seem impossible in an industry built around rhythm and sound — but Big Ocean has found revolutionary ways to make it work.
The group uses advanced performance technology that allows them to feel and visualize music instead of hearing it.
Their setup includes:
- Vibrating smartwatches that pulse in sync with the beat, allowing members to sense rhythm through touch.
- Timing cue monitors that display visual indicators to keep choreography and lyrics precisely aligned.
- Vibration-based sound systems, which let them feel the bass and beat physically during live performances.
- This technology doesn’t just help them perform — it symbolizes the evolution of accessibility in the music industry, proving that art can be inclusive without losing its beauty or complexity.
The Language of Movement and Expression
Big Ocean’s performances combine sign language, facial expressions, and dance to create a captivating new form of communication.
Rather than relying on lyrics or melody alone, their shows blend visual storytelling with choreography, helping audiences connect emotionally through what they see as much as what they hear.
By integrating Korean Sign Language (KSL) into their routines, Big Ocean also raises awareness about the deaf community and demonstrates that communication through art can exist in countless forms.
Big Ocean (Credit: X)
Breaking Barriers in South Korea’s Music Scene
K-pop has long been known for its emphasis on vocal perfection, synchronized dance, and polished visuals. In that context, a group like Big Ocean is revolutionary.
Their debut in 2024 marked a turning point for South Korea’s entertainment industry, challenging conventional standards and encouraging broader representation of artists with disabilities.
For South Korea — a nation rapidly embracing diversity and technological innovation — Big Ocean’s success represents progress not just in entertainment, but in social inclusion.
Their rise has prompted conversations about improving accessibility in concert venues, music education, and talent recruitment.
Public Reception and Global Impact
Since their debut, Big Ocean has earned admiration from both domestic and international fans.
Their unique performances have gone viral on social media, with audiences moved by their creativity, synchronization, and spirit.
Fans have praised them for showing that music is more than sound — it’s emotion, energy, and unity.
K-pop enthusiasts and disability advocates alike view Big Ocean as a symbol of empowerment, representing a future where anyone — regardless of physical limitation — can take the stage and thrive.
Technology Meets Humanity
Big Ocean’s story illustrates how assistive technology can expand artistic boundaries.
Their success has drawn attention from tech innovators, educators, and entertainment companies who are exploring new ways to integrate accessibility into music production and performance.
Their use of wearable devices and visual rhythm cues could pave the way for new standards in inclusive concert design, enabling both artists and audiences with disabilities to fully engage with live music experiences.
Changing the Definition of Success
For Big Ocean, success isn’t measured in chart rankings or album sales — it’s in inspiring others to pursue their passions without fear of limitations.
Their journey serves as a message to aspiring artists worldwide that talent, creativity, and determination matter far more than barriers society may impose.
By proving that even without hearing, one can feel the rhythm, Big Ocean has expanded what it means to be a musician.
