Ahn Jung-hwan. [Herald Muse]
Ahn Jung-hwan. [Herald Muse]

Ahn Jung-hwan, a former professional footballer turned broadcaster, has spoken candidly about his feelings after his charity project reached a cumulative donation total of 500 million won ($369,000).

A video announcing the milestone was posted Monday on his YouTube channel "Ahn Jung-hwan 19."

In the video, Ahn thanked everyone who had been part of the effort. "I want to thank the viewers, subscribers, companies, associates and all the guests who joined us in reaching our five-year goal of 500 million won," he said.

According to figures released alongside the announcement, the funds were distributed as follows: 116 million won to support children preparing for independent living and orphanages; 50 million won to low-income households and grandparent-headed families; 264 million won for medical expense assistance; and 70 million won in football scholarships for youth players and university students.

Having reached his goal, Ahn reflected on what comes next and spoke candidly about the toll the project has taken. "I'm wondering what to do going forward, whether to keep doing YouTube," he said. "The football world has left me feeling quite bitter. I've come this far doing good things, but I still get criticized and it wears me out. I have no energy. I feel empty."

Kim Nam-il, who was present at the announcement, said Ahn deserved credit for seeing it through. "We wouldn't have made it here without Jeong-hwan's perseverance," he said. Ahn said he and those around him needed time to heal. "We've been hurt too, and we need time to recover," he said. "I still want to keep doing good things. I'm thinking about what direction to take next."


choigo@heraldcorp.com