JEJU ISLAND – In a significant move to foster local empowerment and sustainable tourism, Airbnb has announced the allocation of its annual Community Fund to three South Korean organizations. The initiative, timed to coincide with International Women's Day, focuses heavily on Jeju Island’s unique "Halmang" (grandmother) accommodations and the economic independence of vulnerable groups.

On March 5, during a ceremony held at a cafe in Seogwipo, Jeju, Airbnb Korea officially delivered donations to Jeju Olle, the Jeju Social Economy Network, and Habitat for Humanity Korea. The event was attended by key figures including Seo Ga-yeon, Country Manager of Airbnb Korea, and Ahn Eun-joo, CEO of Jeju Olle, alongside local hosts who embody the spirit of the community.

Sustaining the ‘Halmang’ Legacy
The largest portion of the grant, approximately $150,000 (220 million KRW), was awarded to Jeju Olle, the non-profit organization responsible for managing the 27 courses of the famous Jeju Olle Trail. The funds are earmarked for the "Halmang Stay" project, a heartwarming initiative where elderly women (referred to as Halmang in the local dialect) open their spare rooms to weary hikers.

This project does more than just provide a bed; it offers elderly residents a consistent source of income and social engagement. To ensure the success of these senior-led rentals, Airbnb plans to integrate its "Co-Host Network." This system connects tech-savvy, experienced hosts with the grandmothers to assist with digital bookings and property management, lowering the barrier to entry for the elderly.

A Global Commitment with Local Impact
The South Korean donation is part of Airbnb's broader 2020 initiative. This year, the Airbnb Community Fund is distributing $10 million (approx. 14.79 billion KRW) across 130 organizations in 25 countries. In Korea, the total contribution amounts to $230,000 (approx. 340 million KRW).

The selection of the remaining two beneficiaries was driven by recommendations from local Airbnb Host Clubs, ensuring that the funds address the most pressing needs identified by those living in the community:

Jeju Social Economy Network ($40,000): This organization supports social enterprises and public interest groups that provide jobs for employment-vulnerable groups, including women, youth, and the disabled.
Habitat for Humanity Korea ($40,000): The funds will be dedicated to improving the living environments of single-mother households, ensuring safe and stable housing for families in need.

Fostering Inclusive Growth
The timing of the announcement is no coincidence. By focusing on projects that empower women and seniors, Airbnb aims to highlight the role of tourism in creating a more inclusive economy.

"In celebration of International Women's Day, it is deeply meaningful to share the vision of the Community Fund with partners who support the economic foundations of women and the sustainable growth of local communities," said Seo Ga-yeon, Country Manager of Airbnb Korea. "We hope this support serves as a foundation for the inclusive development of local societies, embracing women and other vulnerable groups."

The move is seen by industry analysts as a strategic effort to harmonize global platform growth with local sentiment, particularly in regions like Jeju where traditional lifestyles and modern tourism often intersect. By supporting the "Halmang" stays, Airbnb isn't just selling a room; it’s preserving a piece of Jeju’s cultural heritage while providing a modern safety net for its oldest residents.

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