IU donates 300 million won to medical, welfare organizations to mark 15th debut anniversary

Singer and actor IU [EDAM ENTERTAINMENT]

Singer and actor IU donated 300 million won ($227,000) to medical and welfare organizations serving vulnerable groups in celebration of the 15th anniversary of her debut, her agency EDAM Entertainment said Monday.

She donated to the Asan Medical Center, the Korean National Association of Child Welfare and the Seoul Metropolitan Children's Hospital as "IUaena," a mash-up of the names IU and Uaena, her fan club.

The money will go toward treating women and children with cancer, ensuring children receive the medical procedures they need and repairing children's institutions damaged by the storm.

IU debuted on Sept. 18, 2008, with a performance of "Lost Child" on the cable network Mnet and released her first album five days later. She has become known for her continuous donations throughout her career.

Earlier this year, she donated to ChildFund Korea and the Yangpyeong County office to help children in underprivileged families get heating for the winter.

"I am so happy to be able to take part in sharing warmth to the society thanks to Uaena, who has always been there beside me supporting me," IU said in a press release.

"Being together with fans helps me get the energy I need every time I need it. I want to share the precious love that I've been given by you all and I hope that I become the cause of change for someone else. I always learn gratitude from Uaena. I love you. See you soon."

BY YOON SO-YEON [yoon.soyeon@joongang.co.kr]