Korean singer Insooni has been named the recipient of the 2025 Woman of Influence Award by Pearl S. Buck International, making her the first Korean to receive this prestigious honor since former first lady Lee Hee-ho won it in 2000. The announcement was made on Friday, recognizing the 68-year-old performer for her extensive humanitarian work supporting multicultural and multiracial youth in South Korea.

Born Kim In-soon to a Korean mother and African American father in the aftermath of the Korean War, Insooni has dedicated much of her career to helping children who share similar mixed-race backgrounds. Her most significant contribution came in 2013 when she founded Haemil School, a tuition-free alternative educational institution located in Hongcheon, Gangwon Province. The school specifically serves multiethnic and biracial students, and Insooni continues to serve as its president more than a decade later.

According to Pearl S. Buck International's official statement released on Friday, Insooni "overcame deep societal racial discrimination to become a success in the music industry and a household name in her home country." The organization highlighted how her personal journey from facing discrimination to achieving widespread recognition has made her a powerful advocate for others experiencing similar challenges.

The connection between Insooni and Pearl S. Buck International runs deep, dating back to her childhood. As a young girl being raised by her single mother, Insooni herself received assistance through Pearl S. Buck International's child sponsorship program. This early support helped shape her commitment to giving back, and she now serves as a board member for Pearl S. Buck Foundation Korea, the organization's Korean affiliate.

Pearl S. Buck International, the Pennsylvania-based nonprofit organization that presents the award, was established in 1964 by Nobel Prize-winning author Pearl S. Buck. The foundation focuses on advancing humanitarian causes worldwide and fostering cross-cultural understanding between different communities. The Woman of Influence Award, which has been presented annually since 1978, specifically honors women who have distinguished themselves through both significant career achievements and meaningful humanitarian advocacy work.

Insooni will travel to the United States to accept the award in person during a special ceremony scheduled for August 21. The event will take place at Pearl S. Buck International's historic estate in Perkasie, Pennsylvania, where she will join the ranks of other influential women who have been recognized for their contributions to society and humanitarian causes.