Ginseng is one of Korea’s most famous exports and has been cultivated for more than 1,500 years. In recognition of the importance of ginseng, the ‘The 25th Geumsan Ginseng Festival will take place between 2-11 September 2005 in Geumsan, South Chungcheong Province. Geumsan is Korea’s largest producer receiving and distributing 80% of the ginseng produced in the nation. The 2005 festival will be followed by a ‘World Ginseng Expo’ in September 2006 and will publicise the ginseng industry and herald Geumsan as the centre of the trade both at home and abroad. The medicinal properties of Ginseng have been coveted for many generations and Geumsan is ready to welcome visitors to their festival. For more information go to www.geumsan.go.kr

Korea held it’s own Cultural Festival on August 13th in Kingston, Surrey. Of the UK’s 35,000 Koreans, 20,000 of them live in the borough, many in New Malden. Organised by the New Malden-based Korean Residents Society, the all-day event offered a vibrant taste of the country’s culture. Fairfield Recreational ground was a wash with colour mainly from the traditional folk, mask, fan and ceremonial dances. The event is in its 8th year attracting thousands of visitors who all enjoyed the diversity of the event that was complimented by Taekwondo displays, authentic food and a football tournament. Next years preparations are already underway.

For more information contact Mr R Salameh on 020 7321 2535 or e-mail: London@mail.knto.or.kr