SEOUL: A touching moment between Jimin of BTS and a young cancer patient at a recent concert on the group’s world tour has inspired more than 100 million won (US$72,000) in donations to support children with cancer, according to news reports on Tuesday (Aug 25).
During BTS’ performance of "Go Go" at its Aug 15 'Arirang' world tour show in Arlington, Texas, Jimin stepped down from the stage to greet Olivya, a young cancer patient supported by Heroes for Children, a nonprofit that provides financial and social assistance to families affected by childhood cancer.
Olivya was one of five children with cancer invited to watch the concert from VIP seats sponsored by health insurer UnitedHealthcare.
Jimin then handed her a key chain as a gift before gently patting her head, giving her a hug and kissing her on the cheek.
A video of the brief encounter quickly went viral on social media, surpassing five million views within a day. In the footage, Olivya, who had lost her hair during cancer treatment, repeatedly exclaims, "He kissed me!"
The moment triggered an outpouring of support for the nonprofit, leading it to launch a fundraising campaign with Army, BTS’ global fan base. As of Tuesday afternoon, the campaign website showed the fundraiser having reached 93 per cent of its $100,000 goal.
"BTS fans across the globe have shared Olivya’s story and are looking for ways to help other children battling cancer. Their response has far exceeded our expectations," Natalie Bruegger, the organisation’s senior director of events and marketing, told JoongAng Ilbo.
"With hospital treatment occupying such a large part of their daily lives, the concert gave the young patients a precious opportunity to escape their routines for one night and simply enjoy being children. Jimin’s gesture also inspired people around the world to learn more about childhood cancer and support affected children and their families." - The Korea Herald/ANN
