Top businesses join relief efforts in wildfire-hit areas

By Nam Hyun-woo

Korea’s major business groups have ramped up their relief and recovery efforts for residents affected by the recent wildfires in the southeastern region, donating billions of won.

Samsung Group said Wednesday it decided to donate 3 billion won ($2.05 million) to support emergency relief and recovery efforts for the areas affected by wildfires in North and South Gyeongsang Provinces.

A total of eight Samsung companies, including Samsung Electronics, participated in the donation drive, which will be delivered through the Korean Red Cross. The funds will be used for the recovery of special disaster zones designated by the government, including Sancheong and Hadong in South Gyeongsang Province, Uiseong in North Gyeongsang Province and Ulju County in Ulsan.

Along with the donation, Samsung Group said it will provide 1,000 disaster relief kits containing daily necessities and 600 tents for those who have been displaced.

Samsung said the group has been proactively participating in efforts to ease social hardship under Executive Chairman Lee Jae-yong’s philosophy of mutual growth and sharing.

Hyundai Motor Group also said it has donated 2 billion won to aid the recovery in the areas hit by the wildfires. The automaker also sent six emergency support vehicles, including laundry and disinfection trucks, to offer sanitary assistance to those displaced.

SK Group and LG Group also donated 2 billion won, each, as well as providing non-financial support through their affiliates. Lotte Group, Dunamu and HD Hyundai also each donated 1 billion won.