Pro golfer supports children who lose parents to suicide

Shin Ji-yai reacts after a shot during the final round of the Australian Open at the Australian Golf Club in Sydney, Dec. 3, 2023. AFP-Yonhap

Korean veteran golfer Shin Ji-yai has been supporting children faced by economic hardships following the suicides of one or both of their parents.

Most recently, she donated 20 million won ($14,900) on Jan. 12 for a project to support those children, carried out by the Korea Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

The project is aimed at offering educational spending and medical expenses for children who suffer economic difficulties as well as mental or emotional trauma, after one or both of their parents take their own lives, leaving behind their children.

The 35-year-old, a former World No. 1 with 11 LPGA Tour wins, including two majors, has consistently given attention and support for those children since 2017 to help them grow up healthy.

The total amount of her donations accumulated has so far reached 85 million won.

“I am glad I can be of help to the children,” Shin said. “I hope they do not lose hope and achieve their dreams.”

Hwang Tae-yeon, chairman of the foundation, said, “We have tremendous respect and gratitude for Shin as she has helped the children regularly and for a long time with her warm heart.”