First reunion since 'Grandpas Over Flowers' 13 years ago

Campaign to highlight human values in the age of AI

Actors Shin Gu (left) and Park Geun-hyung [Community Chest of Korea]
Actors Shin Gu (left) and Park Geun-hyung [Community Chest of Korea]

Actors Shin Gu and Park Geun-hyung have been named the new brand ambassadors for the Community Chest of Korea, known as "Sarang-ui Yeolmae," with a campaign focused on conveying the values of human connection and sharing in the age of AI.

The Community Chest of Korea announced Tuesday that it had selected the two actors as its year-round brand ambassadors for 2026. "The authenticity and public trust that both actors embody — having challenged themselves endlessly regardless of age — align well with the values the Community Chest of Korea pursues," the organization said in a statement explaining the selection.

The two actors are appearing together on screen for the first time in 13 years, having last shared a frame in a commercial alongside the cast of the tvN variety program "Grandpas Over Flowers" in 2013. Shin made his debut in 1962 and Park in 1958, giving them a combined 132 years of acting experience. Both remain active today and will share the stage again in "The Merchant of Venice," opening July 8.

The campaign draws on "Donation Trends 2026: Humanity in the Age of AI, Rediscovering Giving," a report published by the Sharing Culture Research Institute, and aims to express through advertising what AI cannot replace — human qualities. The focus is on the idea that giving, including charitable donations, is a noble impulse unique to human beings, not machines. The organization also plans to use the two actors to carry a message of comfort and support from an older generation to younger people.

"Shin Gu and Park Geun-hyung have long been beloved by the public, yet they continue to learn and take on new challenges, and have lived lives of passing that love on to the next generation," Community Chest of Korea Chairman Yun Yeo-jun said. "We hope their authentic lives and spirit of giving will resonate warmly with many people through this brand campaign."

Shin made his debut in 1962 in the stage play "So" and has since appeared in the drama series "Heo Saeng-jeon," the sitcom "They Kiss Again," the drama series "My Mister" and the variety program "Grandpas Over Flowers," among others. Park debuted in 1958 in the stage play "Kkonnip-eul Meokgo Saneun Gigwancha" and has appeared in the drama series "Sandglass" and "The Chaser," among others.

Beyond their acting careers, both actors have taken part in charitable activities. Last year, they staged a benefit performance of "Waiting for Godot" to establish the "Theater Tomorrow Fund," through which 30 young theater artists gained experience in creative and production work. The full proceeds from a benefit performance of "The Merchant of Venice" on July 11 at 6:30 p.m. will also go to the same fund.

"It is a great honor to join this meaningful journey as brand ambassadors for the Community Chest of Korea," the two actors said in a joint statement. "We want to repay the generous love we have received from the public with warmth and sharing."

Filming for the year-round brand campaign is scheduled for Wednesday, with the advertisements set to be released from late July across a range of channels including outdoor media in Gwanghwamun, television and online platforms.


terry@heraldcorp.com