SIWA to hold charity bazaar Nov. 10
Israeli envoy’s wife wants to give back to local community
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Avigail Gutman, wife of Israeli Ambassador to Korea Uri Gutman
By John Redmond
The Seoul International Women’s Association (SIWA) will hold a diplomatic community bazaar at the 63 Convention Center in Yeouido on Nov. 10.
The SIWA and Diplomatic Community Bazaar is one of the largest international fundraising events in Seoul, with more than 40 embassies, women’s clubs, welfare organizations, vendors, local and international sponsors joining together to sell products, food and cultural goods from all over the globe.
Hosted since 1970, the bazaar is attended by an average of 5,000 people each year from both Korean and international communities and has raised more than 2 billion won throughout its history.
The event also benefits more than 30 Korean charities each year.
“While the proceeds from the bazaar are used to support many different Korean charities through the SIWA welfare program, the bazaar itself is a fun day that brings both the expat and Korean communities together to experience the richness and diversity of food, culture and products from around the world,” SIWA said in a press release.
A large variety of quality goods can be purchased, from Italian handbags to Swiss pastries. There is also a chance to win prizes from different boutiques, stores and restaurants in the instant lucky draw and grand raffle.
This year, special guest Avigail Gutman, wife of Israeli Ambassador to Korea Uri Gutman, spoke to The Korea Times about her involvement SIWA.
Q: What inspired you to take an active role in SIWA?
A:
The inspiration behind my involvement was to give back to the local community ― to show commitment and not just talk about it; to be a part of the community.
Q: What has Israel got to offer at the bazaar?
Israel is a very small country and we plan to sell products like wine and olive oil and introduce mud cosmetic products from the Dead Sea. We would also like to promote Israeli culture while doing something good for the community.
Q: Is there much of an Israeli population in Korea?
There is a small population here in Seoul of about 200 people and an organization called KIWA, the Korea Israel Women’s Association. A lot of these women are artists and will be helping with SIWA preparations and donating some of their works.
This year, the bazaar will be held on the second floor of the 63 Convention Center. Located in Yeouido, with ATMs on site, the convention center has ample parking facilities and easy public transport access from three surrounding subway lines.
The event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and admission is free.
For more information, please visit
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