East Asia

Regional Reviewer: David P. Janes, Ph.D.
Institutional Affiliation: International House of Japan; American Friends of the International House of Japan

Overview

The philanthropic environment in East Asia is diverse given the different political structures, histories, and cultures that characterize the key economies analyzed in the region, including China, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. However, five factors are impacting the region’s philanthropic environment, and they are as follows: 1) innovations, 2) professionalization of the field, 3) generational change, 4) new laws, and 5) historical factors. Furthermore, the region is currently experiencing a dynamic period, having emerged from COVID-19 with efforts to revive philanthropic organizations. Overall, the philanthropic environment remains stable in many areas, while experiencing some negative trends in others, with significant disparities between countries.

Throughout the region, we see philanthropic innovation taking place, including an interest in impact investing, new forms of donations, such as an increase in donating via blockchain (e.g., Bitcoin), and the growing impact of AI on philanthropic endeavors. There is an increase in networking activities for philanthropic professionals in the field, which bodes well for the future. Yet, at the same time, the region lags significantly behind the professional training and education that exists in other world regions. In much of East Asia, a career in philanthropy is difficult, with limited career pathways. Generational change is driving an interest in a more hands-on approach to philanthropic endeavors alongside a desire to discern the impact of philanthropy.

Legal and historical structures also impact the regional philanthropic environment. In Hong Kong and mainland China, national security laws have led to restrictions on global activities and partnerships and prevent philanthropy from focusing on certain topics. Throughout much of the region, legal structures—that require nonprofits to register with and report to national governmental bodies—can serve not only to prevent fraud, but also as a mechanism for governmental restrictions on activities. In Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, however, legal structures are becoming more supportive of philanthropic endeavors, and there is concurrently some reduction in bureaucratic engagement. Finally, each economy in the region has a unique history related to philanthropy that continues to have influence.

Across East Asia, philanthropic activity overall appears to be increasing and tackling issues that governments alone cannot address. This is leading to increased calls for networking, professional development activities, and clearer career pathways. Clamping down on some international partnerships, as in China and Hong Kong, can make it difficult to meet these desires by nonprofit and philanthropic leaders. Nevertheless, many activities taking place are causes for optimism, including international conferences, fundraising and development training and networks, and a rise in the mindset that individuals can successfully pursue professional careers in the field.

View the full 2025 GPEI East Asia regional report:

View East Asia Report