A recent charity golf competition for the IVI proved to be a phenomenal success. ‘The IVI Charity Golf for New Vaccines to Save the World’s Children,’ held at Sky 72 Golf Club in Incheon on November 1, raised $502,192, reaping nearly $300,000 in net income.

The golf tournament brought together some 200 entrepreneurs, professional golfers, politicians, and celebrities, including IVI Honorary Goodwill Ambassador actor Choi Bool-ahm. The tournament was followed by a gala, award ceremony, and charity auction. Attending the gala were, among others, 32 contestants of this year’s World Miss University (WMU). WMU had been appointed as IVI Goodwill Ambassadors at last year’s contest.

The golf tournament was supported by many donors and sponsors, and all the proceeds were donated to the IVI. Donors include Contron, a factory automation solutions provider which donated 100 million won (about US$ 108,000); BBQ Genesis, a leading fried chicken supplier; KTB Asset Management; Maiim, a major supplier of aloe products; and EB, an online music shopping mall. The event was also supported by Young Joe Engineering & Construction, and Korea Golf Art Village, as well as the daily newspaper, JoongAng Ilbo; and the television stations, Arirang, CTN (Hwankyung TV), and YTN.  Sky 72 Golf Club donated funds and provided the venue free-of-charge.

Also backing the event were alumni of leading business schools in Korea, including Seoul School of Integrated Science and Technology. Prof. Cho Dong-sung of Seoul National University College of Business Administration chaired the tournament’s organizing committee, playing a critical role in putting together the event.

Notably, the World Professional Golf Association (WPGA) volunteered to organize the event for free. WPGA also agreed to join as the ninth member of IVI Giving Club, pledging additional contributions to the Institute in the future. Mr. Paul Cho, Chairman of WPGA’s Asia division, said, “Korea has generated economic success thanks in part to support from the world following the Korean War. I think it is about time we played our part.”

Ms. Joanne Lee, IVI’s Special Advisor for Fundraising and Communication, who led efforts to host the event, said “Korea has an expanding role to play in the international community in tune with its growing economic and political power.”