Singer Lee Young Ji has once again demonstrated her positive influence by donating a total of 300 million KRW (about 225,000 USD) through an interactive fan-based content project. However, the event was also met with disappointment after a significant number of selected participants failed to show up on the day.
Lee recently launched a participatory game content series titled “Cops and Robbers”, designed to involve fans directly while raising money for children battling pediatric cancer. The project gained attention not only for its entertainment value but also for its meaningful charitable impact, as Lee successfully reached a cumulative donation amount of 300 million KRW.
YouTube channel Channel 'Fullmoon' released an episode titled “Looking for People to Play Cops and Robbers | Lee Young Ji’s Cops and Robbers.” Reflecting a growing trend among younger generations to gather with strangers for social games, Lee opened recruitment for participants—and the response was overwhelming, with nearly 100,000 people applying.
Produced under PD Na Young Seok’s team, the content began on a cheerful note, with Lee enthusiastically shouting, “Lee Young- Ji’s Cops and Robbers!” The caption “A Massive Cops and Robbers Party” added humor and excitement to the opening.
Despite the hype, an unfortunate situation unfolded. Although 100 participants were selected from the 100,000 applicants, only 77 people actually attended the event. A total of 23 participants were absent without notice, leaving visible empty spots throughout the venue.
The production team had prepared game props, as well as commemorative gifts including T-shirts, bags, and other merchandise, all in quantities for 100 attendees. Due to the unexpected number of no-shows, many items went unused and the atmosphere felt noticeably incomplete.
Online reactions quickly followed, with many expressing frustration and disappointment. Comments included:
“If you weren’t going to attend, you shouldn’t have applied,”
“Some people probably took time off work just to join,”
and “Lee Young Ji likely prepared everything based on 100 participants—this is irresponsible.” While some acknowledged personal emergencies could happen, many argued that 23 absences were simply too excessive.
Meanwhile, regarding the donation itself, the Korea Leukemia Children Foundation released an official statement confirming that Lee donated 100 million KRW on February 3, raised through the fan-participation content. The funds will be fully used for pediatric cancer patients’ medical treatment and scholarships.
With this contribution, Lee has now appointed as a noble member of the foundation’s high-donor club, the KCLF Honors Club. Lee shared her thoughts, saying,“If content that begins with joy can help protect the time and lives of children, then that alone feels meaningful.”
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