K-Pop is a very demanding industry, which often forces idols to maintain their perfect image and sets very high standards. Moreover, the strict Korean culture upholds the stigma against discussing mental health-related topics. Idols realize that honesty and mutual support are key to a strong connection with their fans. Because of that, many of them have broken the silence and demonstrated their support. Here are the idols who lifted spirits by participating in suicide prevention campaigns: Note: If you came here looking for support from your beloved idols during a hard time, please remember that you are loved by them and the people around you. We care about you and ask you to seek help - tell your friends or family how you feel, or call your national support line.
1. SF9’s RoWoon
Undoubtedly, the member of SF9 - RoWoon has put his greatest strength into supporting those in critical situations. This year, the idol was praised for his outstanding acting in the drama “Tomorrow” which encouraged Koreans and the global audience into a discussion over underrepresented topics such as depression. This was followed by a recorded message of actors who shared their empathy for people struggling with mental health problems. Moreover, SF9’s RoWoon collaborated with Clean Up on a campaign supporting children and youth who suffered the loss of a family member due to suicide. The donations were made to The Korea Hope, Respect & Life Foundation.
2. 2AM’s Lee ChangMin
2AM’s singer Lee ChangMin made his contribution to the 2021 “Never Give Up” project with his part in ‘It’s Okay To Cry’. The campaign addressed the need of transforming the negative image of Korea in terms of mental health awareness. The proceeds were donated to “YouStar Foundation”.
3. DREAMCATCHER
The members of DREAMCATCHER decided to honor the memory of Korean artists, who tragically ended their lives, and take action to prevent such unfortunate events from happening in the future. The idols took part in Korea Singers Association’s 2020 project by recording a video that included a message intended to spark social support and prevent musicians from committing suicide. The messages of the participating stars were distributed over various media channels and played on the buses of Gyeonggi Province.
4. N.Flying
N.Flying is known for their active involvement in philanthropic actions. In 2019 the group took part in Life Insurance Social Philanthropy Foundation’s youth suicide prevention campaign. As their contribution, N.Flying created a song called ‘It’s Okay’, which was supposed to give encouragement and strength to those going through a rough time, making them look forward to better days.
5. GOT7’s YoungJae
In 2018 GOT7’s YoungJae collaborated with Jamie on the ballad ‘I’m All Ears’ which was part of a suicide prevention campaign launched by the Life Insurance Social Philanthropy Foundation. The lyrics of the song are meant to reflect idols’ concern for the well-being of the listeners and also make them aware that there are people around them, who are willing to help them. Moreover, the project also included a counseling app, where those in need were able to talk about their struggles.
6. Lee DongWoo, SHINee’s TaeMin, Yoon JongShin, Kangta, Girls’ Generation’s SooYoung, Lee SeungChul
Actor and singer Lee DongWoo organized a series of concerts called “Dazzling Road”. The event was held in 2018 with the participation of various Korean stars. The goal was not only to increase awareness but also to raise funds for youth suicide prevention organizations. We are more than proud to see idols contributing to such important causes. We hope this movement continues to help save more and more lives. 4 Times K-Pop Fans Contributed To Noble Causes KPOP STORIES|May 23, 2022 I lost my child so I’m even more thankful than before …
