Squid Game actor Lee Jung-jae donates 50 million KRW award prize money to help veteran filmmakers

Known for his stellar performance in Netflix's Squid Game and the recipient of an Emmy award for Best Actor in Drama, Lee Jung-jae has concluded 2023 on a benevolent note. The actor, known for his acting prowess, has shown his philanthropic spirit by donating prize money to aid struggling veteran filmmakers in South Korea.

How much money has Lee Jung-jae donated?

Lee Jung-jae, acclaimed for his role as Seong Gi-hun in the survival-thriller Squid Game, has donated a substantial amount of 50 million KRW (approximately 32 lakh) to support veteran filmmakers associated with the Korean Senior Filmmaker Association. The actor's magnanimous gesture aims to assist those who dedicated their youth to the film industry but are facing financial challenges today.

The actor was honoured with the prestigious award and prize money at the 13th Beautiful Artist Award. The formal donation to the Association was slated to occur during an event organised by the Shin Young Kyun Arts and Culture Foundation on December 4. This star-studded gathering witnessed the participation of esteemed personalities, including Lee Hae-ryong, the President of the Association, and Moon Cheol-jae, the Secretary-General, as per The Korean Herald.

Lee Jung-jae's statement

Expressing his empathy for veteran filmmakers enduring hardships, Lee Jung-jae highlighted his heartfelt sorrow for those who dedicated their youth to cinema but now face challenging circumstances. His generous act of kindness is driven by a desire to alleviate the financial struggles faced by these senior members of the film industry.

Lee Jung-jae said in a statement, "Whenever I hear of senior members in the industry who devoted their youth to film but are living a hard life, I feel truly sorry, as a junior actor indebted to (their) efforts," as quoted by The Korean Herald.

What are Lee Jung-Jae's philanthropic efforts?

Lee Jung-jae's philanthropy extends beyond his personal contribution. Harim Co. Ltd., a company where the actor serves as a model, has pledged an additional 30 million KRW in the form of instant rice and food supplies for the Korean Senior Filmmaker Association. Furthermore, Ceragem has committed to providing medical facilities and equipment to support the cause, demonstrating solidarity with the veteran filmmakers, as per The Korean Herald.