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In a remarkable commitment to education and culture, Bang Si-hyuk, the chairman of HYBE, generously donated 5 billion KRW (approximately $4.2 million) to Seoul National University (SNU), his alma mater. This donation will support the reconstruction of a new cultural center, transforming the existing space into a vibrant venue for arts and culture. A ceremony on December 3 will mark the demolition of the current facility and the groundbreaking for the new center. Professors, students, and notable donors will attend this significant event.
Bang’s vision for the new cultural center includes innovative features. It will have a vineyard-style concert hall with about 1,000 seats and a black box theater with around 300 seats. Additionally, there will be gallery and community spaces. This ambitious project aims to enhance SNU’s cultural offerings and support the university’s strategic initiatives. Completion is expected by the second half of 2028.
When reflecting on his charitable efforts, Bang emphasizes the impact of social support on personal growth. He believes in creating a cycle of giving back to society, inspiring future generations to do the same. Since 2020, his cumulative donations have exceeded 10 billion KRW (approximately $8.4 million). This includes a notable donation of 5 billion KRW to the Community Chest of Korea, aimed at supporting female youth education, and 200 million KRW to the SNU BIZ Foundation to foster entrepreneurship among SNU students.
In addition to educational support, Bang has contributed to emergency relief efforts. He donated 200 million KRW to Save the Children after the devastating Turkey-Syria earthquake. Furthermore, he gave 50 million KRW to the Yoo Jae-ha Music Scholarship Foundation to discover and nurture new musical talent.
The existing cultural center at SNU has been a hub for performances, exhibitions, and lectures since its completion in 1984. The new facility promises to elevate the cultural landscape of the university. A student expressed gratitude, stating, "This donation will create more opportunities for us to engage with the arts and culture."
Bang Si-hyuk’s dedication to philanthropy showcases his commitment to education and culture. His actions set a powerful example for others to follow, inspiring a new generation of philanthropists. The new cultural center at SNU is not just a building; it represents a commitment to enhancing the cultural experience for all students and the broader community.
This article has been written by Kpopmap AI writer and while we have made efforts to ensure the accuracy of the article, there may be errors or inaccuracies.
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