It's truly exhausting to live as a star in South Korea. Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham) is no exception.

In the North Gyeongsang Province, the damage from wildfires is severe. According to the Korea Forest Service, 45,157 hectares have burned as of the 28th. This is about 75% of the area of Seoul. As of the 27th, there have been 27 deaths and 32 injuries, totaling 59 casualties.

Many celebrities are donating, asking for support for wildfire victims. However, some fans have created a list of high-income earners, demanding, "Why aren't you donating?" and forcing them to contribute, which has sparked controversy.

Among them is Son Heung-min. With a weekly salary of about £190,000 (approximately 360 million won), the rationale is that as the captain of the national team, he should naturally contribute to wildfire relief.

Donations should be voluntary, regardless of the amount, to hold significance. No one should be forced to donate simply because they are high earners. However, fans flocked to Son Heung-min's social media, posting negative comments like, "If you earn a lot, donate some."

Some other fans responded, defending Son Heung-min by asking, "Have you even donated 100 won and criticized Son Heung-min?" and "Who are you to demand donations?" They added, "Living as a star is exhausting with pests like you."

It turns out that Son Heung-min has already donated 200 million won to wildfire relief efforts. Unlike other celebrities, he did not verify his donation amount on social media. The 200 million won is the highest donation amount along with IU.

News of Son Heung-min's donation has been reported by the British media. "London World" stated, "Son Heung-min donated a large amount to help with the wildfire damage in Korea. BTS Jungkook and BLACKPINK Jennie also donated for wildfire relief. Son Heung-min previously donated £100,000 (19.042 million won) when wildfires occurred in his hometown of Gangwon Province in 2019."

Additionally, Son Heung-min donated 100 million won to the Army Headquarters after completing basic military training in the Marine Corps in 2018. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he generously donated 200 million won as well. Son Heung-min has been engaged in various volunteer activities, including operating a free meal program in the UK and donating his football talent.

As news of Son Heung-min's donation emerged late, fans also changed their stance. They commented, "I knew Son Heung-min would do that," "He's a great player who donates without seeking recognition," and "I hope those who post negative comments face legal action" and questioned, "Have those forcing donations even contributed?"

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