As the year draws to a close, acclaimed actor Lee Jung Jae has performed a significant act of kindness. Recently honored with the 'Beautiful Artist Award' by the Shin Young Kyun Arts and Culture Foundation, Lee Jung Jae has donated his entire award prize of 50 million KRW (~38,463 USD) to support veteran filmmakers.

The Foundation announced this generous gesture on November 30. Lee Jung Jae plans to formally present this donation to the Korean Film Veterans Association during a ceremony at the Shin Young Kyun Arts and Culture Foundation on December 4. The event will be graced by the presence of Lee Hae Ryong, President, and Moon Cheol Jae, Secretary-General of the Film Veterans Association.

Explaining his decision, Lee Jung Jae shared heartfelt sentiments with the Foundation. He expressed deep empathy for the struggles faced by veteran filmmakers, who have spent their youth in the film industry only to face hardships in their later years. 

Lee Jung Jae shared, "Hearing about the challenges they face, especially regarding poverty and illness, deeply saddens me." He further mentioned how the news of their solitary struggles and departures deeply affects him.

Additionally, the Foundation disclosed that Harim Co. Ltd., which Lee Jung Jae serves as the model for, will also be donating approximately 30 million KRW worth of food supplies, including instant rice. Moreover, Ceragem has pledged to contribute medical equipment as part of this charitable initiative.

Last month, the Foundation also recognized other notable figures in the film industry, including actors Lee Soon Jae, Jo In Sung, Kim Seo Hyung, and director Im Kwon Taek, as recipients of the 13th Beautiful Artist Award. Each awardee received 20 million KRW (~15,385 USD) in prize money along with a trophy, commemorating their contributions to the arts.