G-Dragon Donates $635,000 to Combat Youth Drug Addiction Through JusPeace Foundation
BIGBANG's G-Dragon has donated 880 million won ($635,000) to his anti-drug foundation, marking his largest charitable contribution yet in the fight against youth substance abuse.
The massive donation went to the JusPeace Foundation, which G-Dragon established in 2024 to combat drug abuse among young people. The money will specifically fund treatment programs for youth struggling with alcohol addiction.
The donation amount of 880 million won reflects the symbolic meaning of the number eight, representing infinity, according to reports. G-Dragon made the contribution through proceeds from his PEACEMINUSONE premium highball product launch in June 2024.
G-Dragon's anti-drug advocacy began after he faced drug allegations in late 2023. Police investigated him from October 25, 2023, but the case was closed on December 13, 2023, due to negative drug tests and insufficient evidence.
Rather than staying silent, the K-pop star used the experience to address broader social issues. In December 2023, he announced plans to establish the JusPeace Foundation and donated an initial 300 million won ($230,000) to launch it.
The JusPeace Foundation officially launched on August 5, 2024, with an inaugural event in Seoul attended by 50 experts from various fields. The name combines "Justice" and "Peace," chosen by G-Dragon himself.
The foundation focuses on four main areas:
- Youth drug addiction treatment and music therapy
- Supporting creative talent through copyright initiatives
- Emotional healing through artistic programs
- Public education on substance abuse prevention
In June 2024, the Seoul Metropolitan Government signed a partnership agreement with the JusPeace Foundation, along with police, education authorities, and medical institutions. The collaboration aims to provide immediate intervention for young drug users instead of waiting for lengthy legal procedures.
The partnership will establish an early intervention model, allowing youth to access counseling and treatment immediately after contact with law enforcement. Currently, treatment typically begins only after legal proceedings, which can delay care for months.
G-Dragon serves as honorary chairman of the foundation, while Galaxy Corporation CEO Choi Yong-ho acts as board chairman. In December 2024, G-Dragon made an additional 100 million KRW donation to the foundation, demonstrating his ongoing commitment.
The artist has also donated prize money from TV appearances and auction proceeds to the cause. His charity auction in September 2024 raised over $1.2 million, setting records for the platform.
"Artists can not only create art but also live a life that brings happiness and peace to the world," G-Dragon explained when launching the foundation. His transformation from facing false accusations to leading drug prevention efforts shows how personal challenges can become catalysts for meaningful social change.
The JusPeace Foundation represents a new model of celebrity activism in South Korea, combining substantial financial resources with government partnerships to address serious social issues affecting young people.
