Seoul: South Korea's major business groups have stepped up to support relief and recovery efforts for residents affected by recent wildfires in the country's southeastern region, they said Wednesday.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Hyundai Motor Group has donated 2 billion won (US$1.26 million) to aid recovery in areas hit by large-scale wildfires, including Sancheong in South Gyeongsang Province, Uiseong in North Gyeongsang Province, and Ulju in Ulsan. The group has also dispatched six emergency support vehicles, including laundry and disinfection trucks, to offer sanitary assistance, along with two mobile office buses to provide rest areas for displaced residents and volunteer workers.
SK Group has similarly contributed 2 billion won towards recovery efforts, with its affiliates providing essential services. Telecommunications affiliates like SK Telecom Co. have set up Wi-Fi and TV facilities at temporary shelters and provided portable chargers for those affected.
LG Group has also committed 2 billion won to the nationwide recovery initiatives. LG Electronics Inc. has supplied air purifiers and other home appliances to temporary shelters, while LG H and H Co. has offered personal care products, such as toothbrushes, toothpastes, and shampoos. LG Uplus Corp. has provided telecommunications services to displaced individuals.
Retail giant Shinsegae Group has contributed 500 million won, along with daily necessities, sanitary goods, and clothing.
The wildfires, intensified by strong winds, have been rapidly spreading across the southeastern regions, resulting in the loss of at least 16 lives.