Digital Charity Marathon Sets Record as KakaoPay and Singer Sean Rally 265,000 Participants

The nationwide charity running campaign “2025 Long Run,” organized by KakaoPay and singer Sean, ended with record-breaking participation, drawing 265,000 people — the largest turnout for any virtual running event in Korea. Designed as both an online and offline donation marathon, the campaign encouraged long-distance running and support for small merchants.

Over 17 days, online participants logged 22.5 billion steps on KakaoPay’s platform, far surpassing the initial goal and resulting in a 2 billion won donation. The offline run on December 6 gathered 5,000 runners at Hanam Misagangjeong Park, where finishers received medals while enjoying music, warm-ups, and booths promoting small-business brands.

The donated funds were given to Together Working to support small business owners. Sean thanked participants, calling the event “a miracle created by collective footsteps,” and expressed hopes of breaking a world record next year. KakaoPay CEO Shin Won-geun highlighted the event as proof of how digital platforms can drive meaningful social impact.

Source : http://koreabizwire.com/digital-charity-marathon-sets-record-as-kakaopay-and-singer-sean-rally-265000-participants/339608

Comprehension

Who organized the “2025 Long Run” campaign?
How many participants joined the event in total?
What was the final number of steps collected during the online portion?
How much money was donated as a result of the campaign?
What did Sean say about the event when thanking participants?

Discussion

Do you think digital platforms make it easier for people to participate in charity events? Why or why not?
Would you join a virtual running event? What motivates you to take part in such activities?
How can charity events support small businesses or local communities?
What are some benefits of combining physical activities, like running, with social causes?
Do you believe large-scale charity events can encourage long-term giving habits in people?

Vocabulary

Philanthropy – the act of donating money, time, or resources to help others.
Cumulative – increasing or growing over time through repeated additions.
Commemorative – made to honor or remember a particular event or achievement.
Mobilize – to organize or bring people together for a purpose.
Foundation – an organization that provides support or funding for charitable causes.