Singer and actress IU has demonstrated her philanthropic spirit by donating 200 million KRW (approximately $143,090) to celebrate her birthday this year. On May 16, her agency, EDAM Entertainment, announced that the donation was made in the name ‘IUAENA,’ a blend of her name and her fanbase, UAENA.
The donation is being split among four organizations, with each receiving 500 million KRW (about $357,730). The funds will aid vulnerable groups in South Korea, including low-income families, elderly individuals living alone, youths transitioning to independence, single-parent households, and people with disabilities.
The contributions have been distributed to Hope Joyagdol, the National Center for the Rights of the Child, Happygiver, and Ddadong. These funds will help provide living support for struggling households and seniors, assist youths in their transition to society, and improve facilities and technologies for individuals with disabilities.
IU is known for her generous donations on significant occasions, including her birthday, debut anniversary, and year-end holidays. Earlier this year, she donated 200 million KRW to support wildfire recovery efforts in the Gyeongsang region and also contributed 150 million KRW for Children’s Day to assist children and adolescents in need. With her latest donation, IU’s total contributions in 2025 have reached 500 million KRW, furthering her commitment to social responsibility.
In addition to her philanthropic efforts, IU is set to release her third remake album on May 27, marking her first remake project in eight years. She is also preparing to begin filming for MBC’s upcoming drama ’21st Century Grand Prince’s Wife.’
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