By Connor O’Reilly
The Irish Association of Korea (IAK) will hold an end of year fundraiser in the Wolfhound Irish Pub in Itaewon on Dec. 18. The fundraiser, called “An Irish Christmas,” will start at 7:30 p.m. and continue until midnight. The IAK is looking to raise funds to continue hosting community events for Irish and non-Irish in Korea next year.
The IAK is best known for organizing the Saint Patrick’s Day Festival in central Seoul over the past decade. Members participate on a voluntary basis and include people from Ireland, Korea, and other parts of the world. Members have backgrounds in business, education, scientific research and the arts.
The organizers explained that the IAK is a community group and anyone is welcome to join. According to them, this event, “An Irish Christmas,” is both a fundraiser and a way to build awareness about who the Irish Association of Korea are, and the work that we do in the community,” according to a statement on the website.
The year 2011 plans to be a busy one for Irish people in Korea. Both the Asian Gaelic Games championship and the Asia-Pacific Ireland Business Forum will come to Korea in the later part of the year. Before these events, Saint Patrick’s Day in Seoul is probably the largest foreign festival in Korea, having attracted over 20,000 spectators and participants in the past.
On Dec. 18, there will be a musical performance with a variety of music that originates from Ireland. It will include a traditional Irish music group, with members from both Ireland and Korea, and a performance of contemporary Irish music. The organizers have arranged for a number of special prices on drinks including Guinness, Kilkenny, mulled wine and double Jameson all at only 6,000 won. There will also be a raffle at the event.
The event will take place on the ground floor of The Wolfhound, and the special prices can only be obtained there. Entry to this fundraiser is only 10,000 won and includes a glass of mulled wine. This event is supported by 10 Magazine and Deeleebob Music. For further details please visit www.iak.co.kr or contact 010-9910-3753.
