By Bae Ji-sook
Staff Reporter
Philanthropist pop singer Kim Jang-hoon will hold an international essay contest on the Dokdo islets.
Having run an ad in The New York Times to highlight Korean sovereignty over Dokdo, he said the winning essays will be translated into several languages for distribution to libraries and academic institutes worldwide.
Kim said he would be the first sponsor of the event, urging companies and individuals to join later. The event needs estimated funding of $1 million.
The rock star has taken part in a number of charity causes. He participated heavily in a campaign to stimulate the economy of Taean County, South Chungcheong Province, where a massive oil spill nearly destroyed the local eco system and farms. He has also helped Korean women forced to work as sex slaves for Japan during World War II.
Last year, he donated more than $4 million to charity, though he lives in a simple leased apartment.