Lee Ji-eun, known globally as IU, has once again proven why she is considered one of South Korea’s most prominent “donation angels.”
In celebration of Children’s Day on May 5, 2026, the singer and actress made a substantial contribution to support the well-being of the nation’s youth.
Her agency, EDAM Entertainment, announced that IU donated a total of 100 million KRW (approximately $67,600 USD) to two major child welfare organizations.
This act of kindness is a cornerstone of her long-standing commitment to social responsibility, ensuring that children from all walks of life- especially those in the most vulnerable positions- feel recognized and supported on their special day.
Beyond the financial gift, IU’s 2026 Children’s Day was marked by a deeply personal touch. She extended her generosity to the child actors she worked with on the set of her upcoming Netflix series, When Life Gives You Tangerines.
Child actress Kim Tae-yeon and others shared photos of handwritten letters and personalized gifts from IU, with Kim’s mother expressing her profound gratitude:
“IU, thank you so much..! Tae-yeon is really very happy, and thanks to the actress, she is growing up upright and diligently!”
This combination of large-scale institutional support and individual kindness highlights IU’s sincere approach to philanthropy, where she treats her colleagues and the public with the same level of care.
Targeted Support for Vulnerable Youth
The 100 million KRW donation was strategically split between two key institutions to maximize its impact on different segments of the pediatric population.
According to official reports,
“IU gave 50 million won each to the Korea Child Welfare Association and the National Association of Regional Child Centers.”
This balanced distribution ensures that both children in residential care and those utilizing community-based services benefit from her generosity.
By directing funds to these specific associations, IU is helping to fortify the infrastructure that protects and nurtures children who may lack traditional family support systems.
The funds are earmarked for specific, tangible improvements in the lives of these children.
The Korea Child Welfare Association will utilize their portion to “support supplies and medical expenses for children living in child welfare facilities,” while the National Association of Regional Child Centers will focus on creating joyful memories.
Specifically, their funds will provide “gifts and cultural experiences for children at regional child centers on their birthdays.”
This focus on both essential needs (medical care) and emotional well-being (birthday celebrations) demonstrates IU’s holistic understanding of what it means for a child to thrive.
A Legacy of Collective Giving: The Power of “IUAENA”
A hallmark of IU’s charitable work is her insistence on sharing the credit with her dedicated fanbase, Uaena.
For this Children’s Day contribution, the donation was officially made under the name “IUAENA” (a portmanteau of IU and Uaena).
This tradition, which she has maintained for years, transforms her personal success into a collective achievement for her fans. EDAM Entertainment emphasized this collaborative spirit, stating,
“IU donated a total of 100 million won under the name ‘IU Anna’ (IU + Yoo Ae-na) to mark Children’s Day… to spread positive influence.”
This donation adds to an incredible legacy of giving that has now exceeded tens of billions of won over the course of her career.
In the past year alone, IU has contributed 200 million won to support wildfire recovery efforts and 200 million won to celebrate her debut anniversary.
Her consistency has made her a role model for “celebrity altruism,” inspiring her fans and other artists to engage in similar acts of service.
As she continues to juggle a demanding career- including her current role in the drama Perfect Crown- IU remains steadfast in her belief that
“I want to share the love I have received from many people with children, so I am sending my heart to places in need.”
Through “IUAENA,” she ensures that her “heart” reaches the children who need it most, every single year.
