IMI, the operator of ItemMania, said on March 27 it held a public art-based social contribution activity, 'Underfoot Art Museum', in Dohyeon village in Jeonju on March 26.

The activity was planned to improve appearance, noise and vibration problems caused by aged stormwater manhole covers around the entrance road to Dohyeon village in Manseong-dong, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju.

The area has faced continued complaints. IMI took part in solving the problems by supporting environmental improvement activities that reinterpreted the design of stormwater manhole covers and by providing donations. Participants included Rak-gi Choi (최락기), CEO of the Jeonju Cultural Foundation, visual artist Chang-yoon Jin (진창윤) and Jeonju City Council member Yu-jeong Shin (신유정).

IMI employees colored nine manhole covers based on a draft produced by Jin. Each manhole had a design reflecting local characteristics and public art elements.

They then carried out flower planting and environmental cleanup activities around the entrance road with village residents who took part in the event.

An IMI official said, "This project was planned to resolve inconveniences for local residents." The official added, "We will continue to pursue social contribution activities that can help address problems in local communities."

IMI has also won a health and welfare minister's commendation under the Community Contribution Recognition System and has been selected as a recognised company for six consecutive years.