The Export-Import Bank of Korea announced on the 21st that it sponsored a trip for 300 disadvantaged children and their family members to Yeosu Expo 2012.

The children were from five Multicultural Family Support Centers* in Gwangju and Jeonnam Province, as well as SOS Children’s Village in Suncheon City.

* Gwangju City, Suncheon City, Yeongam County, Mokpo City, and Gwangyang City

Through this event, the Bank aimed to give multicultural families and neglected/abused children the opportunity to experience international culture, education, and art through Yeosu Expo 2012 as they generally would not have the chance.

The children and their family toured Yeosu Expo, including the Marine Life Pavilion, which highlighted ocean and mudflat ecosystems, and the International Pavilion, which highlighted international culture.

A representative of the Bank commented, “Through this program, we hope the participants will learn to appreciate the importance of the ocean and in particular, take advantage of the opportunity to share with those of other cultures and backgrounds.”

Ms. Ae-suk Ha, a social worker of the Multicultural Family Support Center in Gwang-ju Province, commented, “There was so much to see that I didn’t even feel tired from walking so much! I hope this kind of support for multicultural families will continue.”

In addition to programs such as this, the Bank operates various other social programs such as SEED, a program which allocates a portion of profits from financing large corporations (0.5%) to assist marginalized groups.