Actress Lee Young-ae Donates $10,000 to Aid Thai Student Critically Ill in Korea

Acclaimed actress Lee Young-ae has stepped forward with a generous donation to support a Thai student who fell critically ill while studying Korean in South Korea.

According to reports on the 14th, Lee Young-ae contributed 10 million Korean Won (approximately $7,500 USD) to assist Sirinya, a Thai exchange student at Chonnam National University who collapsed due to a cerebral hemorrhage and has been in a coma for three months.

Sirinya was found unconscious in her dormitory in July and was diagnosed with acute subdural hematoma. She remains in a coma undergoing treatment. When news spread of her financial struggles making treatment and repatriation difficult, students and staff, led by Chonnam National University's relief volunteer club 'Rhythm of Hope,' initiated a voluntary fundraising campaign.

The campaign surpassed its initial fundraising goal, and upon learning of this initiative, Lee Young-ae made her own significant contribution of 10 million Won to 'Rhythm of Hope.' She expressed her gratitude to the students for their efforts, stating, 'I am rather grateful that the students are doing such a good deed.'

Furthermore, Korean Air has agreed to cooperate with Sirinya's repatriation, securing five seats to accommodate the necessary medical equipment for her transport. She is scheduled to depart from Incheon International Airport on the evening of the 15th to be flown back to Thailand.

Korean netizens reacted warmly to the news, with comments like 'Actress Lee Young-ae is truly an angel,' and 'This must have been a huge source of strength during a difficult time.' Many also praised the students involved, saying, 'The students' hearts are so beautiful too.'