By Kwon Mee-yoo
Staff Reporter

The Seoul Metropolitan Government said it will provide support to foreign communities' cultural events and activities.

It hopes the program will encourage expatriates in Seoul to publicize their culture and Seoul citizens to experience various festivals from around the world.

Cultural events to be held this year and organized by foreign embassies, chambers of commerce and expat communities will benefit from the program. Unlike in previous years, foreign cultural festivals held by Korean civic groups may also apply for the program.

For instance, Korea BBB (Before Babel Brigade) wanted to hold an event for multicultural families in Korea. Last year, it was not able to apply for the support because it was a Korean organization. However other Korean organizations may now receive financial support as well.

The city will finance as much as 80 percent of an event, with a maximum contribution of 6 million won ($4,500).

``Through this program, foreigners living in Seoul can present their cultural characteristics and bring us their traditions. Meanwhile, citizens can enjoy various international festivals and understand cultural diversity in Seoul,'' said Cho Wan-seok, deputy director of Seoul City. ``After receiving the applications, we will screen events to receive aid.''

The city gave support to 14 international festivals, such as St. Patrick's Day and Mongolia's Naddam Festival last year, while 21 organizations applied. Total financial support reached 54 million won. The total budget for this year's support is about 80 million won, Cho said.

Communities or organizations seeking the support are required to file applications from Jan. 15 to 30 requiring an introduction to the community holding the event and a detailed plan. More information can be found at the homepage of Seoul Global Center, global.seoul.go.kr.

meeyoo@koreatimes.co.kr