SEOUL, March 26 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's major business groups have stepped up to support relief and recovery efforts for residents affected by recent wildfires in the country's southeastern region, they said Wednesday. Samsung Group, the largest business group in South Korea by asset, has announced a 3 billion-won (US$2 million) donation, with contributions from its eight affiliates, including Samsung Electronics Co., Samsung Display Co. and Samsung Life Insurance Co. The donation will be given to the Korean Red Cross to support recovery efforts in the areas hit by large-scale wildfires, including Sancheong in South Gyeongsang Province, Uiseong in North Gyeongsang Province and Ulju in Ulsan. Additionally, Samsung will provide 1,000 rescue packages for those who have lost their homes and 600 tents for displaced residents.
Hyundai Motor Group has donated 2 billion won (US$1.26 million) to aid the recovery efforts in wildfire-hit areas. The group has also dispatched six emergency support vehicles, including laundry and disinfection trucks, to offer sanitary assistance, along with two mobile office buses to provide rest areas for displaced residents and volunteer workers.
SK Group has also donated 2 billion won for the recovery efforts, with its affiliates providing substantial services. Its telecommunications affiliates, including SK Telecom Co., have set up Wi-Fi and TV facilities at temporary shelters and have provided portable chargers for those affected. LG Group has also contributed 2 billion won to the nationwide recovery efforts. LG Electronics Inc. has provided air purifiers and other home appliances to temporary shelters, while LG H&H Co. has offered personal care products, such as toothbrushes, toothpastes and shampoos. LG Uplus Corp. has provided telecommunications services to displaced people.
Retail giant Lotte Group has donated 1 billion won, along with daily necessities and processed food products. Another retailer, Shinsegae Group, has provided 500 million won, together with daily necessities, sanitary goods and clothing. SPC Group and Oriental Brewery have delivered bottled water to the affected areas.
The wildfires in the country's southeastern regions have been spreading rapidly for days amid strong winds, claiming at least 24 lives. Separately, a firefighting helicopter with one pilot crashed Wednesday while battling a wildfire in the southeastern county of Uiseong, killing the pilot. The government designated the hardest-hit southeastern regions as disaster zones to focus resources and accelerate recovery efforts.
As the wildfires continue to wreak havoc, local businesses are rallying to support those affected. Samsung Electronics, for instance, is not only providing monetary donations but also essential supplies and temporary shelters for evacuees. The company's commitment to assist the Korean Red Cross illustrates a broader corporate responsibility trend among South Korean firms.
Hyundai Motor Group's proactive approach includes deploying emergency aid vehicles, which are crucial for providing immediate support to those in need. Their efforts reflect a commitment to community welfare and disaster response, showcasing the role of large corporations in national crises.
Meanwhile, SK Group's initiatives highlight the importance of connectivity during disasters. By setting up IT stations and providing portable chargers, they are ensuring that displaced individuals can stay informed and connected, which is vital in such trying times.
LG Group's contributions further emphasize the multifaceted approach needed in disaster recovery. Their provision of air purifiers and personal care products addresses both immediate and long-term needs of the affected populations, showcasing a comprehensive understanding of disaster relief.
Notably, the retail sector has also stepped up to the plate. Lotte and Shinsegae's donations of food and essential supplies demonstrate the critical role that grocery and retail chains play in supporting local communities during emergencies.
As the situation evolves, the government’s designation of disaster zones in the hardest-hit areas underscores the seriousness of the wildfires. This action aims to streamline recovery efforts and allocate resources effectively to the regions that need them most.
In addition to corporate efforts, local food companies have also mobilized to provide emergency supplies. McDonald's Korea delivered 1,460 hamburgers to wildfire-affected areas, while companies like Otoki and Nongshim are sending noodles and food packs to support displaced residents and relief workers.
The rapid spread of the wildfires, which began on March 22, 2025, has been exacerbated by unusually warm and dry weather conditions, highlighting the challenges faced by firefighters and emergency responders. As of Wednesday morning, March 26, at least 24 people have been confirmed dead, with rescue operations ongoing.
In the face of these challenges, the outpouring of support from South Korea's business community reflects a collective commitment to recovery and resilience. As these companies continue to provide aid and assistance, the hope is that the affected communities will recover swiftly and rebuild their lives.
As the wildfires continue to pose threats, the collaborative efforts of corporations, government, and local communities will be crucial in navigating the recovery process. The dedication shown by these groups not only aids in immediate relief but also sets a precedent for future responses to natural disasters.
In these trying times, the spirit of solidarity and support shines through, reminding everyone that in the face of adversity, communities can come together to help one another.
