Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham) suffered from unexpected negative comments.
Son Heung-min, who earns about £190,000 (approximately 360 million won) per week, faced pressure to donate to assist victims of forest fires in the Gyeongbuk region.
Recently, some fans flocked to Son's social media and posted negative comments saying, 'If you earn a lot, you should donate.' They created an uncomfortable atmosphere demanding donations from celebrities, asking, 'Why aren’t you donating?'
Celebrities including IU joined the donation movement, asking for contributions to assist forest fire victims. IU is reported to have generously donated 200 million won. However, donations should be made voluntarily, regardless of the amount. No one should be pressured to donate simply because they are high-income earners.
It turned out that Son Heung-min had already donated 200 million won for the forest fire victims. Unlike other celebrities, he did not publicly confirm the donation amount through social media. Public opinion only changed after the fact of Son's donation became known.
Fans are supporting Son Heung-min, saying, 'I expected that from him,' 'A wonderful player who donates without seeking recognition,' 'I hope those who post negative comments will be prosecuted,' and 'I wonder if those demanding donations have donated themselves?'
Son Heung-min donated 100 million won to the Army Headquarters after completing basic military training in the Marine Corps in 2018. He generously contributed 200 million won during the COVID-19 pandemic. Son has been engaged in exceptional volunteer activities, including running a free meal service in the UK and donating his football talent.
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