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Korean Culture Celebrated At IHP Fundraising Gala

By Andrew Kramer

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Korean Culture took center stage Saturday night during International House Philadelphia's 54th Global Gala.

Korean food, cocktails and decorations filled International House Philadelphia during the fundraiser, which raises money for IHP.

"Every year we bring a different country's culture to all Philadelphians to learn about and enjoy," says CEO Tonya Steinberg. "This year it's Korea: we're celebrating the country, people, cuisine, art."

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Different Korean food was served during International House Philadelphia's 54th Global Gala. credit cbs

City Councilman At-Large David Oh, a Korean-American, was this year's honoree.

"When I did find out I was the honoree I was very touched by that because we're usually on the giving side -- we give citations, resolutions, pass laws and try to give money -- and it's quite nice that someone thinks of you and gives you some recognition," he tells KYW Newsradio.

Those attending got to enjoy everything from Korean barbecue to Soji cocktails and much more.

Music was also a big part of the event. Korean artists and dancers performed all night, including Toyeon Kim who played her ghayageum.

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Toyeon Kim playing the ghayageum at International House Philadelphia's 54th Global Gala. credit cbs

Also in attendance was Young Lee, president of the Korean American Association of South Jersey.

"I'm very proud of the students preparing this event," he says.

Lee adds he hopes to see more events like this in the future.

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Young Lee (right) at at International House Philadelphia's 54th Global Gala. (credit cbs
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