On February 6, a video titled “Looking for People for Cops and Robbers | Lee Young Ji’s Cops and Robbers” was uploaded to the YouTube channel Channel 15ya. Recently, a unique trend has emerged among younger generations in Korea, where strangers gather to play real-life versions of the childhood game “Cops and Robbers.” Often dubbed the “President of the MZ Generation,” Lee Young Ji joined the trend by recruiting participants to play together, drawing massive attention with an astonishing 100,000 applicants.

The event was produced as part of Channel 15ya’s content, with Lee Young Ji energetically announcing the start by shouting, “Lee Young Ji’s Cops and Robbers!” On-screen captions even described it as a “large-scale Cops and Robbers party,” adding a humorous touch.

However, despite the overwhelming interest, disappointment followed. Out of the 100 participants selected from the pool of applicants, only 77 actually appeared on the day of filming. A total of 23 people failed to show up, even after beating odds of nearly 1,000 to 1. The production team had prepared game equipment and commemorative gifts—including T-shirts, bags, and other merchandise—for all 100 participants, making the empty spots all the more noticeable.

Viewers did not hold back their frustration. Many criticized the no-shows, commenting that it was irresponsible to skip after being selected, especially when the conditions—including the weekday schedule and mandatory attendance—had been clearly stated in advance. Others pointed out that even accounting for unavoidable circumstances, 23 absences were excessive, particularly considering the effort and cost put into preparing gifts for everyone.

Despite the setback, the event ended on a warm and meaningful note. At the start of the game, Lee Young Ji handed participants money as “bounties,” which collectively amounted to ₩258 million. She later revealed the total, reminding everyone that the more money collected, the more good it could do. Going one step further, Lee Young Ji decided to round it up and donate a total of ₩300 million.

Under the name “Lee Young Ji’s Cops and Robbers,” the donation was distributed to Seoul Metropolitan Children’s Hospital, Asan Medical Center Children’s Hospital, and the Korea Leukemia Children Foundation, turning what could have been remembered for disappointment into a moment of genuine generosity and social impact.

Sources: Nate