[Sports Seoul | Wi Su-jeong] Actress Moon Geun-young says the reason she’s given steadily since childhood comes down to family lessons. On the 22nd, during an appearance on tvN’s You Quiz on the Block, Moon opened up about why she’s donated over 900 million KRW (approximately $675,000).
Moon credits her grandmother — who doubled as her manager for about a decade early in her career — with shaping her values. She grew up watching her grandmother cook for the crew and clean the set. Even in lean times, her grandmother lived by the motto “we should live to give.” And whenever Moon received lots of public affection, her grandmother would remind her not to get cocky, warning that “an empty cart makes the most noise.”
Her parents’ approach also played a big role in turning Moon into the generous donor people admire today. Both civil servants, they cautioned their daughter — who began earning significant money at a young age — against careless spending. Moon recalled, “My parents said the money was earned with long, hard nights, so I shouldn’t show off and waste it. Their suggestion that I donate to people in need was the start of my giving.” Reports later revealed that since 2003 she has quietly donated more than 930 million KRW (approximately $697,500) to pediatric cancer treatment funds and scholarship foundations, earning public praise.
On the show, Moon also spoke about her health history. In 2017 she endured a difficult period, undergoing four surgeries for acute compartment syndrome, but doctors have since declared her fully recovered and very healthy. She reassured fans with a touch of humor: “I’ve put on a little weight, but please cheer for my diet success rather than worry about my health.” Viewers have responded warmly, applauding her steady generosity and upbeat spirit. wsj0114@sportsseoul.com
