#SHOWBIZ: 'A kiss for Olivya': BTS' Jimin inspires massive RM290k cancer charity surge
AUSTIN: BTS member Jimin’s heartwarming interaction with a young cancer patient at the group’s concert in Arlington, Texas, has helped raise more than 100 million won (about RM291,700) for children battling cancer.
During BTS member Jimin's performance at a concert in Arlington, Texas, he unexpectedly interacted with a young cancer patient named Olivya. Olivya, who is one of five children battling cancer and was given VIP seats by UnitedHealthcare, was visibly delighted when Jimin greeted her, handed her a keychain, patted her head, gave her a hug, and kissed her on the cheek.
The heartwarming moment, captured on video, quickly went viral, garnering over five million views in just a day. Inspired by the emotional reaction, Heroes for Children, a US non-profit organization, launched a fundraising campaign with BTS's global fan base, known as ARMY, to support children with cancer and their families. The campaign aimed to reach a US$100,000 (around RM421,000) target, and by Tuesday afternoon, had already achieved 93% of its goal.
Heroes for Children senior director of events and marketing Natalie Bruegger expressed her gratitude towards the fans, saying that the concert allowed the young patients to escape their hospital routines for a night and simply enjoy being children. She added that Jimin's gesture had also encouraged people worldwide to learn more about childhood cancer and support affected children and their families.
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