In response to the urgent global climate crisis, a concert featuring top K-pop stars will take center stage for the Plant Our Planet (POP) Campaign, which focuses on reforestation as a robust solution.

The POP Campaign, a joint initiative by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Korea Forest Service, and UNICEF Korea, aims to foster international solidarity in combating the pressing challenges of climate change. This year’s campaign will collaborate with Maeil Broadcasting Network (MBN), adding strength to the cause.

Experts have identified climate change as the culprit behind the relentless heatwaves, droughts, and recent heavy rainfall-induced flooding in Korea’s central region.

Similar extreme weather events have also been occurring worldwide. In light of these pressing environmental concerns, the significance of reforestation in achieving carbon neutrality has become increasingly emphasized.

The POP Campaign was officially launched after a successful kick-off ceremony in April that saw the planting of over 3,000 trees. Since then, more than 90 million people have participated in the campaign, combining virtual and real-world efforts, resulting in the planting of over 4,000 trees in locations such as Korea, Mongolia, Indonesia, and Vietnam.

Building on this momentum, MBN and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are coming together to organize the 2023 POP Concert with the aim of raising awareness about tree planting as a viable solution to the climate crisis and encouraging active participation in the campaign.

The highly anticipated concert, featuring prominent K-pop artists such as YOUNITE, AB6IX, THE BOYZ, Baekho, and fromis_9, promises to dazzle audiences with dynamic performances.

The singers will also use their music to convey special messages urging everyone to play their part in saving the planet.

Hits like “Waterfall,” “Loser,” “Roar,” “Need it,” and “#Menow,” which have already captivated global fans, will serve as the backdrop for these impactful messages.

Adding to the excitement, the concert will feature K-pop stars engaging in various mini-games, including the Shout-Out Speed Quiz, Charades, and the AR Filter Challenge.

MBN previously partnered with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the “END Violence” campaign in 2022, aimed at eliminating violence against children and youths, which further underscores their commitment to driving positive change through meaningful events.

The 2023 POP Concert will be livestreamed on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ YouTube channel, KOREAZ, at 9:00 pm (KST) on July 28. For those who miss the livestream, the concert will also be broadcast on MBN at 11:40 am (KST) on July 29, ensuring the powerful message reaches as many people as possible.

By Minu Kim

[ⓒ Pulse by Maeil Business Newspaper & mk.co.kr, All rights reserved]