Korea Week 2024 commenced in Riyadh, showcasing South Korean culture through traditional dance and musical performances. The South Korean Embassy aimed to enhance cultural understanding beyond the popular K-pop, highlighting the significance of heritage. Events continue until November 4, promoting bilateral ties and shared cultural values.
Saudi Arabia recently witnessed the commencement of Korea Week 2024, a vibrant celebration of South Korean culture held at Prince Sultan University in Riyadh. This event, organized by the South Korean Embassy, featured an array of cultural dances and musical performances by the esteemed Korea National University of Arts. Junghoon Chang, the second secretary and consul at the South Korean Embassy, expressed hopes that this cultural initiative would broaden the appreciation of Korean heritage in Saudi Arabia, despite the existing popularity of K-pop. “These K-pops are really based on our heritage. So, I thought showing our heritage could foster understanding of Korea for Saudis,” he remarked. The event showcased a series of traditional and contemporary dances, each encapsulating themes such as self-discovery and the balance of life. Notable performances included “Who Are You?”, which explored personal identity and purpose, and “Distance”, which delved into the emotional complexities inherent in relationships. Furthermore, a traditional musical display known as Samulnori entertained the audience with percussion performances symbolizing the harmony found within nature. Professor Kim Wonmin articulated the significance of these performances, stating that they reflect various elements of natural sound including thunder, rain, wind, and clouds. The cultural celebration is set to continue until November 4, highlighting events such as taekwondo demonstrations and a reception for the Korean National Day. Chang emphasized the cultural similarities between Korea and Saudi Arabia, particularly the shared value of kindness in diplomatic relations, underscoring that “Diplomacy is all about people, and how you treat people.”
Korea Week 2024 in Riyadh serves as a platform for enhancing cultural exchange between South Korea and Saudi Arabia. The event demonstrates the growing diplomatic relations between the two nations, further solidified through high-level visits by leaders from both countries. This cultural celebration includes a variety of performances aimed at showcasing the depth of Korean heritage, including traditional music and dances that signify fundamental aspects of life and the environment in Korean culture. Such initiatives are crucial in fostering mutual understanding and appreciation of cultures between the two countries.
In summary, the opening of Korea Week 2024 in Riyadh signifies a strong commitment to cultural exchange and mutual respect between Saudi Arabia and South Korea. The diverse performances and the emphasis on shared values, such as kindness and understanding in diplomacy, highlight the importance of such cultural initiatives in strengthening bilateral ties. As the festivities continue, they are expected to further deepen the connection between the two nations.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
