Expats And South Korean Locals Join In Multinational Charity Event

Last Friday, the expat community in the South Korean city of Incheon held a charity market aimed at benefiting the local Haesung orphanage.

The aim of the event was to bring together both locals and expatriates living and working in the city via the sharing of talents and raising of donations to help promote inclusivity in society as a whole. The expat organisation’s Korean language name means ‘together’, with their Arts and Charity Market aiming to promote togetherness in all its forms.

The event took place in the city’s Free Economic Zone and involved both locals and expatriates from across the world. Displayed for sale were traditional crafts representing the cultures of expats’ home countries including Peru and Tanzania, and favourite foodstuffs from across the world were presented and enjoyed. Performances displayed the same international flavour and were much appreciated by the crowds of local and foreign customers and onlookers.

One especially popular presentation showed products made by refugees from Syria, Lebanon and Jordan. All the proceeds will be given to Tying Vines Humanitarian, a provider of free trauma counselling, education, medical and dental care as well as food to refugees from the war-torn Middle Eastern region. Stage performances by students were another highlight of the event, bringing joy to both the audience and the participants sharing their talent to help the totally disadvantaged.

According to a spokesperson from Incheon’s local government, the vision of coexistence given by the event is shared with officials, along with a wish to help communication between the expat community and South Korean locals as well as helping the marginalised in the city. The spokesperson also noted that local participation in charitable events is declining, but believes the type of fun, interactive experience presented at the event could help reverse this trend. For the expat participants, it’s a great way to give to those who need help as well as to show appreciation for the friendship and welcome they’ve received from the local community.