The globally renowned K-pop boy band Seventeen has made a substantial contribution of $250,000 to UNESCO in commemoration of International Youth Day, according to an announcement from their management company Pledis Entertainment on Wednesday. This generous donation represents the latest chapter in the group's ongoing commitment to supporting youth initiatives worldwide through their partnership with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.
The funds were officially presented to the UN agency on Tuesday and were raised through proceeds from the group's charitable auction titled "Joopiter presents: sacai x Seventeen." The donation will specifically support and strengthen the Global Youth Grant Scheme, an innovative program that Seventeen has developed in collaboration with UNESCO to empower young people around the globe. This initiative reflects the band's dedication to using their international platform for meaningful social impact.
Seventeen currently holds the prestigious position of UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Youth, making them a powerful voice for young people worldwide. The 13-member group achieved a historic milestone in 2023 when they became the first K-pop act to address an entire session at a major UNESCO meeting. This groundbreaking moment occurred during their participation in the 13th UNESCO Youth Forum, a biennial event that takes place alongside the UNESCO General Assembly in Paris, where they both spoke to delegates and delivered a memorable performance.
Following their appointment as UNESCO's first-ever Goodwill Ambassador for Youth last year, the band demonstrated their commitment to youth empowerment by donating $1 million to establish a comprehensive global youth support program in partnership with the organization. This substantial initial investment has been instrumental in creating opportunities for young people worldwide, with the fund currently supporting 100 teams of youth from various countries as they work to implement their own self-initiated projects aimed at building a better future.
In a heartfelt statement accompanying their latest donation, the members of Seventeen reflected on their personal connection to youth advocacy: "From our debut until now, we have grown by expressing the many moments of youth through music infused with our genuine experiences and emotions, which makes the meaning of International Youth Day all the more special to us." The group continued, emphasizing their role as mentors and supporters: "We send a message of encouragement to all young people around the world who are continuing to move toward their dreams."
This latest contribution underscores Seventeen's evolution from entertainment performers to global advocates for youth empowerment, demonstrating how K-pop artists can leverage their international influence to create positive change and support meaningful causes that resonate with their fan base and the broader global community.
