IU Marks Her 18th Debut Anniversary With $144,000 Donation
IU is celebrating 18 years since her debut by giving back.
On September 18, singer and actress IU marked her 18th debut anniversary with a generous donation of 200 million won (approximately $144,000) under the name “IUAENA,” combining her name with that of her official fan club, UAENA.
Rather than celebrating the milestone only for herself, IU directed the donation toward four organizations supporting people in need.
200 Million Won Donated to Four Organizations
IU donated 50 million won to each of four organizations, for a total of 200 million won:
- Social Welfare Society
- Seoul Rehabilitation Hospital
- Heart-Heart Foundation
- Habitat for Humanity Korea
According to her agency EDAM Entertainment, the donations will support several causes, including helping young adults preparing to live independently after leaving institutional care, rehabilitation treatment for children and adolescents facing financial difficulties, and living expenses, education, and mental health support for young women preparing for independence. Part of the donation will also help improve the housing conditions of national veterans.
A Message to UAENA
Alongside the donation certificates, EDAM Entertainment shared a message from IU reflecting on the meaning behind the contribution.
IU expressed her hope that, just like UAENA has shared its support and warmth with her, more gentle moments could become part of people's everyday lives.
The donation continues a tradition IU has maintained for years, with the singer regularly making contributions under the name IUAENA on meaningful occasions such as her debut anniversary, birthday, and the year-end holidays.
IU Has Continued Giving Throughout 2026
This is not IU's first major donation of the year.
On Children's Day, she donated 100 million won to support children and adolescents. Later, on her birthday on May 16, she donated another 300 million won to multiple causes.
Her latest contribution brings another meaningful chapter to her long-running tradition of marking important milestones by giving back.
18 Years Since IU's Debut
IU made her official debut in 2008 and has since established herself as both a successful singer and actress, building a career that has included major music releases and acclaimed drama roles.
Now, 18 years after entering the entertainment industry, she is celebrating the milestone alongside UAENA in a way that directly benefits others.
Her latest donation was made in the name of IUAENA, once again connecting the anniversary to the relationship between IU and the fans who have supported her throughout her career.