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# Image: 2025 South Korean wildfires - Photo: BBC South Korea Confronts Its Most Severe Wildfires on Record South Korea's southeast is battling catastrophic wildfires that have already killed at least 24 people, mostly elderly, and injured 26, with 12 in critical condition. Over 23,000 have fled their homes as the "unprecedented" crisis, deemed the nation's worst ever, continues to rage. The inferno even consumed a 1,300-year-old temple in Uiseong, though relics were saved. Starting in Sancheong, the fires, whipped by strong, dry winds, spread rapidly across Gyeongbuk and several other counties, triggering the highest fire alert. Tragically, a firefighting helicopter pilot died in a crash amidst the efforts. Thousands of firefighters, 5,000 troops, and even US military helicopters are desperately fighting to contain these devastating blazes. Korean Entertainment Stars Make Substantial Donations for Wildfire Relief Numerous Korean entertainment stars have generously contributed to wildfire relief efforts. BTS's Jungkook led with a significant 1 billion won (USD 681,000) donation, followed by bandmate RM and artists like G-Dragon , BLACKPINK 's Jennie , NCT's Doyoung , Jaemin , Johnny, Jungwoo, ASTRO's Cha Eun Woo , YoonA, Jung Hae In, Kim Junsu, and Super Junior's Eunhyuk , each donating 100 million won. Further support came from RIIZE (150 million won), ITZY's Yeji , NCT's Johnny and Jungwoo, Han Ga In, TWICE's Nayeon and Dahyun, SHINee's Key, and the Choo family (50 million won each). Jay Park , ASTRO's JinJin, Jung Il Woo, DinDin, Yoon Yoo Sun, Choi Hwa Jung , Dex (10 million won each), Kim Tae Woo (30 million won), and Oh Na Ra (20 million won) also contributed, showcasing a broad wave of support from the Korean entertainment community. In the wake of the heartbreaking 2025 wildfires, South Korea's entertainment world has offered a poignant display of support. Though the nation grieves, many beloved Korean celebrities have quietly stepped forward to help those who have lost so much. Their generous contributions, a testament to their empathy, offer a glimmer of hope amidst the devastation, reminding us that even in the darkest times, compassion and unity can shine through. #KoreanStarsHelp #WildfireRelief #KEntForGood #KoreaDonates #DaeguSupports

From 1885 to 2025: 140 Years of France-Korea collaboration! But why are more Koreans falling for the French language? 1️⃣ Month of La Francophonie - (March) What is the Month of La Francophonie? March is dedicated to celebrating La Francophonie, highlighting the French language and culture worldwide. When is International Francophonie Day? March 20 marks International Francophonie Day, a global celebration of the French language and the values it represents. What is La Francophonie? The French Ambassador to KBS 2️⃣ The French Community in South Korea According to Wikipedia (2024), approximately 11,000 French people live in South Korea. This vibrant community includes entrepreneurs, business professionals, models, and media personalities such as Julien Kang , Siméon-François Berneux , Victor Collin de Plancy , Ida Daussy , Fabien Yoon , Robin Deiana , and many more! Seoul has 32 international schools, but the most well-known for French-language education are Lycée International Xavier and Lycée Français de Séoul . 3️⃣ French in Korean Pop Culture French has also made its way into Korean pop culture, appearing in K-dramas and K-pop songs. One of the most memorable moments was in the hit drama Twenty-Five Twenty-One , where a famous scene featured the French language. Many K-pop idols and actors have also learned French to connect with their fans or during their travels to France. For instance, members of BTS have showcased their French skills on several occasions. 4️⃣ Exclusive Interview with Ambassador Philippe Bertoux © KBS World France M. Philippe Bertoux was interviewed by Ha Young Florence Oh , with the discussion aired on March 19 and 26 . 5️⃣ Why Does South Korea Celebrate La Francophonie? Although South Korea is not a French-speaking country , it has been an observer of the OIF for over a decade. The country also has a strong interest in the French language, with over 50,000 students learning French each year. Ambassador Bertoux emphasized the importance of supporting these learners and sharing a love for the language and its associated cultures. Events & Celebrations © KBS World French “The Francophonie celebrations are not limited to March 20. We have planned a whole month of events, covering different aspects of French language and culture. Anyone interested can find detailed information on our dedicated website https://francophonie.or.kr/ , available in both Korean and French.” – Ambassador Philippe Bertoux (Translated) Whether in classrooms, K-dramas, or international relations, French is more present in Korea than ever! Have you ever spotted French in a K-drama or K-pop song? Which one was your favorite? #France #Korea #OIF #Francophonie2025 #Kpop #French #Korean #KDramaLovers #Bilingual #CulturalExchange #LearnFrench #Idol #Kdrama

Something amazing is coming your way, ARMY ! We have all the details on the boys' highly-anticipated comeback as a group! Image: BTS members and 2025 official tour poster - bts.br ightofficial Instagram What's going on?! ARMY! Did you hear?! BTS just teased the Run BTS Highlight Package ! Can you believe it?! Our beloved Run BTS is back in some form! Mark your calendars: April 24th is the day and pre-orders hit on April 8th at 10 AM (Philippine time)! Plus, this is as fans our first FULL group content since 2023! We've been waiting for this! And the BEST part? June is around the corner, and they'll ALL be back! Can you feel the excitement?! Surge of excitement A surge of excitement swept across the ARMY as a teaser on BTS's official X account hinted at their much-anticipated comeback. The agency revealed two new projects: "BTS 7 Moments" , with episodes dropping from March 16th to April 2nd, and the "RUN BTS POLY HIGHLIGHT PACKAGE" , releasing from April 7th to May 3rd. Alongside pre-order and release links, a detailed poster was unveiled, and fans learned that vinyl versions of "BTS 7 Moments" and the "RUN BTS POLY HIGHLIGHT PACKAGE" would arrive in 2025. These pre-recorded projects offer glimpses into the group's activities before their military enlistment, and despite their service, members like V , have kept fans updated, sharing news of promotions and well-being. The anticipation for a full group reunion is building as V, RM , Jimin , and Jungkook prepare for their discharge. Final thoughts While the full scope of these upcoming releases remains shrouded in a tantalizing veil of mystery, the anticipation radiating from the ARMY is palpable. Marking the first full group content since 2023, these projects serve as a bridge, connecting fans to the cherished moments following "Yet to Come" and "Take Two" . More than just releases, they represent a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards the highly anticipated reunion of all seven members. With the discharge of V, RM, Jungkook, Suga , and Jimin slated for June, the countdown to their triumphant return has begun, promising a new chapter filled with the unity and artistry that defines BTS. #BTSARMY #BTSARMY #Jungkook #Jimin #Jimin #V #RM #Jin #Suga, #JHope #Kmusic