UNICEF Korea announced on the 25th that Shotaro, a member of the group RIIZE, donated ₩25.0 million KRW (about $17,000 USD) on his birthday, the 25th, in the name of RIIZE’s fan club, BRIIZE, to support the healthy growth of children worldwide.
His warm-hearted contribution will be used in UNICEF’s core programs that prioritize support for the most urgent regions and fields globally, including health, nutrition, water and sanitation, education, protection, and emergency relief.
Shotaro said, “I wanted to give back to the support from BRIIZE, so I decided to donate on my birthday. Since I receive so much love, I want to share love and happiness in various places as well. Though it’s a small help, I hope it can be of assistance to someone.”
Cho Mi Jin, Secretary-General of UNICEF Korea, expressed, “We sincerely thank Shotaro for practicing meaningful sharing for children around the world on his birthday. His warm heart and positive influence will bring great hope and courage to children everywhere who face difficult days.”
In February 2023, Shotaro donated to support children and disaster victims affected by the Turkey earthquake. Since September, he has participated in the “UNICEF Team” campaign, planned to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the social contribution agreement between UNICEF Korea and SM Entertainment, spreading positive influence. Those who apply for regular sponsorship through the UNICEF Team campaign page will receive a special edition UNICEF Team bracelet, “Pink Blood.”
UNICEF (United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund) is the only UN agency explicitly mandated by the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child to promote children’s rights. It conducts health, nutrition, water and sanitation, education, protection, and emergency relief programs for children worldwide.
UNICEF Korea, as the representative institution of UNICEF in Korea, raises funds for children worldwide and promotes children’s rights domestically through initiatives such as creating child-friendly societies.
