On June 12th, KARA received their award as one of the 10 stars that helped make Korean tourism shine at the 2012 'Stars of Korean Tourism' awards ceremony.

The girls were given the achievement award for their part in leading the Hallyu Wave in Japan and lending their efforts to promoting Korean tourism all over the world. According to a survey conducted by the KOFICE in January, KARA was chosen as the most favorite K-Pop star by the Japanese.

Also, the girls worked as promotional ambassadors for the '2011 K-Pop Cover Dance Festival' and participated in the Incheon Hallyu Tourism Concert the same year.

With bright smiles, the girls received their trophy as one of the 10 stars of the ceremony and expressed, "It's an honor that KARA was able to receive such a special award for Korean tourism. We'll work hard as singers to spread Korean culture even further."

The 'Stars of Korean Tourism' ceremony was launched in 2010 and held its third ceremony this year. Previous winners of the same award include Bae Yong Joon and '1 Night 2 Days' in 2010, and Kim Yuna and So Ji Sub in 2011.

KARA was chosen this year by a combination of 60% online votes and 40% opinions from a panel of judges. KARA was given $5,000 USD in award money and a plaque.

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Source + Photos: Star News via Naver