The Irish ambassador is urging Korea’s foreign community to come together for an international ski festival.

Irish Ambassador Eamonn McKee is the chairman of the YongPyong Ski festival to take place from Feb. 10-12.

“It has been one of the highlights of the year for expatriate families living in Korea for thirty years and the festival is celebrating its 30th anniversary,” he said.

“It has been my honor to be selected as this year’s chairman. Previous Irish ambassadors have served in this role, including ambassador Moran for the five years he was posted to Seoul. He had the distinct advantage of being able to ski!”

He urged members of the Irish community to take part “even though skiing is not a great tradition in Ireland for obvious reasons.”

International participants can enjoy large discounts on equipment, accommodations and ski-lift tickets during the festival.

The racing competition on Feb. 11 will be divided into age groups including children (up to 8 years old), junior (9-13 years), teens (14-17 years), and three adult categories (dividing at 34 and 46 years old). A snowboarding competition will also be held for all ages will also be held on the same day. Entertainment will include an anniversary magic show and dance party. On Feb. 12, attendees will be able to enjoy free skiing from 9 a.m.

For more information or to register to take part in the event go to: www.yongpyong.co.kr/eng/index.asp.