Korea Week 2024 has commenced in Riyadh, presenting a rich tapestry of South Korean culture through traditional performances and dances. Featuring artists from the Korea National University of Arts, the event aims to deepen understanding of Korean heritage beyond K-pop. The ongoing cultural exchanges are expected to strengthen the already robust ties between Saudi Arabia and South Korea.
In Riyadh, Korea Week 2024 commenced with an impressive display of South Korean cultural heritage. Hosted at Prince Sultan University, the Korean Traditional Cultural Day, organized by the South Korean Embassy, featured an array of traditional dances and musical performances from the Korea National University of Arts. Junghoon Chang, a second secretary and consul at the embassy, expressed hope that despite K-pop’s popularity, the events could introduce a broader spectrum of Korean culture to the Saudi audience. He noted that the rich heritage of K-pop originates from traditional elements, promoting greater understanding of Korea among Saudis. The relationship between Saudi Arabia and South Korea is described as “stronger than ever,” bolstered by recent high-profile visits from both nations’ leaders. Cultural exchanges like Korea Week are crucial in further solidifying these bilateral ties. The event showcased diverse themes through dance, including introspection, relationships, and the balance of life. Notable performances included “Who Are You?”, exploring identity; “If There Are Two Girls”, focusing on differing perspectives; and “Distance”, illustrating emotional complexities. Traditional influences were evident in pieces like “The East Sea Rhapsody”, and “A Reversed Dawn”, which touched on modern societal issues. Each performance was an artistic reflection of the audience’s connection to nature and personal experiences. Additionally, the Samulnori musical segment emphasized the cultural significance of percussion instruments like the janggu, which symbolizes the synergy of Korea’s regional melodies. Kim Wonmin, a professor from the Korea National University of Arts, articulated how the performances historically served to bridge communal experiences and express gratitude for harvests. He highlighted the philosophical underpinnings of yin and yang within Korean culture, emphasizing their complementary nature. The evening culminated in a lively display featuring traditional Pan Gut ceremonies and a Lion Dance, meant to dispel negativity. Korea Week will run until November 4, with various events including taekwondo performances and a reception on Korean National Day. Chang underscored the essential similarity between Korean and Saudi cultures in their shared values of kindness, reinforcing the notion that diplomacy is fundamentally about people and their treatment of one another.
Korea Week 2024 in Riyadh celebrates South Korean culture and aims to enhance understanding and promote cultural ties between South Korea and Saudi Arabia. The initiative showcases not only modern pop culture, such as K-pop, but also traditional arts, fostering appreciation for Korea’s historical and artistic influences. Events like these are part of broader diplomatic efforts to deepen relationships between the two nations, which have been strengthened by recent high-profile visits between their leaders.
Korea Week 2024 serves as a significant cultural exchange that not only highlights South Korea’s artistic heritage but also reinforces diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia. Through a series of performances that explore essential themes of identity, connection, and nature, the event aims to broaden understanding and appreciation of Korean culture among Saudi audiences while emphasizing the shared values that underpin both societies.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
