Donga Otsuka Joins Forces with Seoul to Champion a New Era of Giving
SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA – December 3, 2025 – In a move signaling a strengthened commitment to social responsibility and community support, Donga Otsuka has been officially appointed as a core partner in the Seoul Metropolitan Government’s ‘Sharing-Ium Network.’ The announcement, made this morning at a ceremony held at Seoul City Hall, positions the pharmaceutical company as a key player in expanding Seoul’s donation culture and bolstering its disaster response capabilities. This is a breaking news development with significant implications for both corporate social responsibility and the future of public-private partnerships in South Korea.
A Recognition of Consistent Contribution
The appointment recognizes Donga Otsuka’s longstanding dedication to social contribution, particularly its swift and effective response to crises like forest fires and floods. Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon personally presented CEO Park Cheol-ho with the letter of appointment, acknowledging the company’s proactive efforts in protecting vulnerable populations during heat waves and providing essential goods during emergencies. This isn’t simply a symbolic gesture; it’s a testament to Donga Otsuka’s demonstrated ability to deliver tangible aid when it’s needed most.
What is the ‘Sharing-Ium Network’ and Why Does it Matter?
The ‘Sharing-Ium Network’ is a cornerstone of Seoul’s strategy to foster a more generous and connected society. It’s one of three major initiatives designed to amplify the impact of donations across various sectors. The network operates on the principle of strengthened collaboration between public entities, private organizations, and local communities. By bringing these groups together, Seoul aims to create a more resilient and responsive system for addressing social needs. This approach is increasingly vital in a world facing escalating climate-related disasters and growing social inequalities.
Beyond Immediate Relief: The Rise of Strategic Philanthropy
While immediate disaster relief is a crucial component, the ‘Sharing-Ium Network’ represents a shift towards more strategic philanthropy. It’s about building sustainable solutions and addressing the root causes of vulnerability. Donga Otsuka’s involvement is particularly noteworthy because it highlights the growing trend of companies integrating social impact into their core business models. This isn’t just about writing checks; it’s about leveraging expertise, resources, and innovation to create lasting positive change. For example, pharmaceutical companies like Donga Otsuka can contribute not only financial aid but also vital medical supplies and expertise during health crises.
A Joint Declaration for a Shared Future
The appointment ceremony culminated in the Seoul Nanum-Ium Network Joint Declaration, a powerful statement of commitment from citizens, institutions, companies, and local communities. This declaration signifies a collective pledge to share responsibility and work together to build a more compassionate and equitable society. CEO Park Cheol-ho emphasized Donga Otsuka’s dedication to fostering mutual trust through transparent and impactful sharing initiatives, promising to expand the company’s positive influence throughout society.
“We will take the lead in practicing sound sharing so that mutual trust can deepen in the process of sharing,” Park Cheol-ho stated. “We will expand the good influence that companies can have and lead warm changes in all corners of society.”
This partnership between Donga Otsuka and the Seoul Metropolitan Government isn’t just a local story; it’s a model for how cities and corporations can collaborate to address pressing social challenges. As the world grapples with increasing complexity, these kinds of public-private partnerships will become increasingly essential for building a more sustainable and resilient future. Stay tuned to archyde.com for continued coverage of this developing story and insights into the evolving landscape of corporate social responsibility.