Singer and actor Lee Seung-gi has taken a leading role in addressing urban climate crisis challenges. As an ambassador for climate resilience for the Korean Red Cross, he actively participates in various initiatives to combat climate change.
On July 2nd, at 9:30 AM, Lee Seung-gi delivered a keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the Urban Collaboration Platform (UCP) International Conference held at Korea House in Jung-gu, Seoul.
Quoting a recent report from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), Lee stated, "From 1970 to 2021, over 12,000 extreme weather, climate, and water-related disasters occurred, resulting in 2 million deaths." He further highlighted that "90% of these disasters occurred in developing countries, with economic losses amounting to $4.2 trillion USD (approximately 5,590 trillion KRW)."
In 2022, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement adopted a resolution titled "Strengthening Community Resilience in Urban Areas, Our Way Forward," which aims to have 50 cities adapt to climate change and protect 250 million people from extreme heat by 2025.
Introducing this resolution, Lee remarked, "We will reflect on the efforts made by the Red Cross so far and share our experiences over the next three days. I am committed to always supporting and participating in creating resilient cities and communities."
The conference, themed "Our Promise: Building Urban Climate Resilience Together," opened on July 2nd, bringing together over 100 urban and disaster resilience experts from 26 countries to discuss international solidarity.
Lee Seung-gi was appointed as an ambassador for climate resilience in September 2023. He has been actively raising awareness about climate and environmental disasters and promoting resilience-building measures. Last year, he participated as a speaker at the 5th International Disaster Resilience Seminar and has been at the forefront of climate resilience campaigns.
Lee Seung-gi's association with the Red Cross began with his involvement in the Youth Red Cross (RCY). He has donated a total of 760 million KRW to the Red Cross. In December 2022, he also donated 2 billion KRW to Seoul National University Children's Hospital, contributing to the treatment costs of young patients and setting an example of generosity and compassion.