Gwangan International Community Fair, a Big Hit in Its First Year
The GICF experienced tremendous growth and success in its first year. The bi-monthly event is a collaboration between We HOPE, the great owners and staff at Gorilla Brewing CO. in Busan, and lead coordinator Adele Vitale along with her amazing team of organizers Sharon Nagy, Aliison Kennedy-Lee, Clare Blackman, Melanie Burnell and Stacey Fells. The fair brings the community together by providing a fun and hospitable opportunity for Korean and expat friends and families to gather. Attendees have a chance to meet local vendors and service providers, and shop for unique handmade goods while supporting local charities.
The Kids’ Corner has games and activities for children making it a great place for families to enjoy an afternoon. The 5 events this year managed to raise nearly 3 million won through donations and raffles. The proceeds have been donated to three local charities, Busan Lifeline (suicide prevention), the Busan Federation for Environmental Movement (ocean preservation), and Save the Children Korea (Emergency Relief/Humanitarian Assistance). The GICF is looking forward to continued success in 2019.
