A HEARTWARMING moment between BTS member Jimin and a young fan battling cancer has inspired fans around the world to come together for a fundraising campaign that has raised more than $91,000.
Jimin met pediatric cancer patient Olivya during BTS’ “Arirang” concert in Arlington, Texas, on Aug. 15, 2026.
Through Heroes for Children, a Texas-based nonprofit organization supporting families with children and young adults battling cancer, pediatric cancer patients and their families were given the opportunity to attend the highly anticipated BTS concert.
Among them was Olivya, who had an unforgettable encounter with Jimin, whose real name is Park Ji-min, during the group’s performance.
According to Heroes for Children, Jimin came off the stage and approached the suite where Olivya was watching the concert. He hugged her, kissed her on the cheek, and gave her a gift.
The organization described the encounter as an unexpected and meaningful experience for Olivya, who has spent much of the past year navigating cancer treatment.
“They laughed. They sang. They cheered. They made memories,” Heroes for Children said.
The moment quickly resonated with BTS’ global fan base, known as ARMY, with fans praising Jimin for giving Olivya a special memory during a challenging period in her life.
Fundraising campaign
As Olivya’s story spread online, ARMY and Heroes for Children launched a $100,000 fundraising campaign to support children battling cancer and their families across Texas.
Fans worldwide soon rallied behind the campaign, making donations and encouraging others to contribute.
As of posting time, the fundraiser has collected $91,916.75, or more than P5.6 million, according to Heroes for Children’s website.
The nonprofit organization provides financial assistance, social experiences, and comfort and care to families with children and young adults ages 0 to 22 who are battling cancer.
Heroes for Children also expressed its gratitude to BTS and the fans for turning the special concert encounter into an opportunity to help more families.
“Your response has transformed an unforgettable moment into an opportunity to make a meaningful difference for children across Texas,” the organization said.
The fundraiser also echoes BTS’ history of supporting causes involving children and young people.
In 2017, BTS partnered with Unicef Korea for the “Love Myself” campaign, which promotes self-love and aims to help end violence against children and young people.
The group was later recognized for its charitable efforts, becoming the first South Korean artist to receive a Presidential Commendation at the 5th Korea Good Donation Awards, according to Bighit Music.
What started as a brief but meaningful encounter between Jimin and a young fan has since grown into a global show of support, with ARMY helping turn one special concert night into an opportunity to create more moments of hope for children and families affected by cancer.
“Now, together, we can turn one special night into many more,” Heroes for Children said.
