Ambassador Kathleen Stephens opens a People's Garden at Gwacheon National Science Museum, April 23, 2011

On April 23, Ambassador Kathleen Stephens, opened a permanent People's Garden in vibrant Seoul, Korea, one of the largest cities in the world. The 700 square meter site was provided by the Gwacheon National Science Museum. Dr. Shang-Hi Rhee, president of the Gwacheon National Science Museum hosted the inaugural event. He and the Ambassador, who arrived together at the Museum by bicycle, were joined by 70 volunteers including Boy Scouts and Junior Master Growers – Korea (JMG-Korea). The Boy Scouts eagerly ponied up 600 service hours necessary to prepare and design the garden site, build the garden arbor and raise the beds for growing vegetables and flowers. In her remarks, Ambassador Stephens emphasized the importance of volunteerism to the success of the People’s Garden initiative.

The People’s Garden at Gwacheon Museum not only connects the American and Korean communities through a spirit of volunteerism but also enables urban children to learn gardening skills and gain understanding of growing food and healthy eating. Elementary school children affiliated with the JMG-Korea planted vegetable seedlings including red lettuce, green lettuce, oak lettuce, romaine lettuce, eggplant, Korean red pepper, cucumbers, and cherry tomato. The produce that will eventually be harvested by the children will be donated to charity.

Florida Grapefruit Launches 100-Day Sales Campaign

Florida Department of Agriculture, Marketing Representative, Michael Ryshouwer, traveled to Korea, April 4-8 to launch in-store sales promotions in leading department and discount stores in Seoul. Last year, Florida grapefruit sales to Korea grew by 54 percent and exceeded $8.5 million. (KITA) This year, Korean consumers will have the opportunity to sample Florida grapefruit at Hyundai Department stores, Lotte Mart and E-Mart grocery stores. The United States maintains about 90 percent market share of the Korean grapefruit market. Grapefruit are currently assessed a 30 percent import duty but this tax will be phased out over a five-year period when the Korea-USA Free Trade Agreement is implemented.

American Hardwood featured in 2011 Seoul Living Design Fair, March 24-28

American Hardwood Export Council showcased a diverse style of studio furniture made from American hardwoods at 2011 Seoul Living Design Fair. The exhibition featured the work of renowned designer Ms. Han Jyung Hyun and was one of the most popular spots during the five-day event visited by more than 150,000 people. Ms. Han’s work included chairs and tables made from American hardwoods including red oak, ash, walnut and birch. Of special note was a sewing machine table made of ash and walnut which was featured in the Chosunilbo, the largest national daily in Korea. A noteworthy trend during this year’s show was a strong presence of solid wood furniture made from American hardwood.