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Kim Sae-ryeo, Representative of UNHCR Korea (left), and Kim In-soo, General Director of Korea SGI, attend a donation ceremony for relief funds to aid recovery efforts following the Venezuela earthquake. / Photo courtesy of Korea SGI

Korea SGI has stepped forward to assist with recovery efforts following a powerful earthquake that struck Venezuela last month.

Korea SGI announced on July 23 that it deposited relief funds with the South Korea office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to support earthquake recovery in Venezuela.

Venezuela suffered extensive casualties and property damage following a series of strong earthquakes in its northern region last month on June 24. Local residents are currently facing severe hardships due to acute food shortages and the destruction of homes. The donated funds will be allocated toward survivor rescue operations, shelter provision for displaced individuals, and emergency medical services.

"Rooted in the Buddhist philosophy of humanism, we wished to lend a hand to share in their pain," said Kim In-soo, General Director of Korea SGI, during the donation ceremony. "We hope this brings at least a small measure of relief to the people of Venezuela who are enduring great suffering." He added, "We will continue to support and encourage UNHCR's dedicated efforts, as they are always on the front lines of humanitarian crises."

Kim Sae-ryeo, Representative of UNHCR Korea, responded, "Ground in the values of respect for life and humanism that Korea SGI has consistently put into practice, UNHCR will do its utmost on the ground so that this warm solidarity can empower affected residents in Venezuela to restore their daily lives."

Meanwhile, Korea SGI has maintained continuous exchanges and financial support with the UNHCR Korea office. The organization has actively supported relief efforts for survivor protection and reconstruction while broadening understanding of humanitarian crises worldwide. It plans to sustain its humanitarian assistance for those suffering from disasters and conflicts moving forward.

                                                                                                        Hwang Eui-joong