Export-Import Bank of Korea donates 500 million won to ChildFund Korea after staff charity run exceeds goal

The Export-Import Bank of Korea said Monday it donated 500 million won ($324,000) to ChildFund Korea as part of an employee charity campaign.

The campaign, titled "Walking Together, Charity Run," was launched to mark the bank's 50th anniversary. Over one month starting in late April, employees were challenged to collectively walk 50,000 kilometers, with the bank pledging to donate a set amount toward renovating deteriorating homes of low-income families with children nationwide if the goal was met.

Some 671 employees — about half of the bank's total staff — took part, and the 50,000-kilometer target was reached within two weeks. The campaign ultimately logged 120,000 kilometers, 2.4 times the original goal.

The bank raised its donation to 500 million won, also 2.4 times the originally planned amount, with the funds to be used to improve living conditions for more vulnerable children and their families.

Junho, a boy living in Mokpo, South Jeolla Province, whose home was renovated with the bank's support, said the improvements had transformed his daily life. "Every time it rained, I worried about leaks — now I can sleep without a care, and I'm truly happy," he said. "Our home has become so nice that I actually want to invite my friends over."

The bank signed an MOU with the Ministry of Health and Welfare in April to support a program that provides food and daily necessities to people in financial hardship without requiring a separate application process.

Bank President Hwang Ki-yeon said the campaign had been a meaningful way to deepen employees' sense of social responsibility. "It is deeply meaningful that this charity run, held to mark our 50th anniversary, has helped raise our employees' awareness of social contribution," Hwang said. "The enthusiastic participation allowed us to expand the donation 2.4-fold, and we plan to support even more families with children in vulnerable circumstances."