Colombian Red Cross staff and volunteers transport earthquake survivors to safety. [Provided by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies]
Colombian Red Cross staff and volunteers transport earthquake survivors to safety. [Provided by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies]

The Korean Red Cross announced Thursday it would provide emergency relief funding and launch a public fundraising campaign to aid displaced residents in Colombia, which was struck by a magnitude-7.4 earthquake on Monday (local time).

Donations collected will be channeled through the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the Colombian Red Cross to support search-and-rescue operations, medical care, temporary housing, and clean water and sanitation services for those affected.

Those wishing to donate may transfer funds directly to the Korean Red Cross's dedicated account or contribute through its website, Kakao Together or Naver Happy Bean. Further details are available through the Korean Red Cross call center.

Kim Hong-guk, acting president of the Korean Red Cross, noted that Colombia is the only Latin American country to have sent combat troops to fight alongside South Korea during the Korean War. "We ask for the public's attention and participation so that the people of Colombia, who are suffering from this devastating disaster, can return to their daily lives as soon as possible," he said.


thlee@heraldcorp.com