Korea Week 2024: A Cultural Showcase in Riyadh Strengthening Bilateral Relations

Korea Week 2024 commenced in Riyadh, showcasing South Korean culture through traditional performances at Prince Sultan University. The event aims to deepen cultural understanding and strengthen diplomatic ties, highlighting the shared values of kindness between the two nations. Cultural events will continue until November 4, enhancing the appreciation of Korea’s rich heritage.

RIYADH: The cultural essence of South Korea was magnificently presented in Riyadh as the Korea Week 2024 festivities commenced on Tuesday. Hosted by Prince Sultan University, the Korean Traditional Cultural Day was organized by the Embassy of South Korea, featuring an array of traditional cultural performances including dances and musical acts from the Korea National University of Arts. Junghoon Chang, the second secretary and consul at the embassy, expressed his enthusiasm for using this event to showcase the diverse spectrum of Korean culture, aiming to extend beyond the well-known K-pop phenomenon so prevalent in Saudi Arabia. He articulated his hope that this cultural presentation would deepen the understanding of Korea’s heritage among Saudi citizens, stating, “These K-pops are really based on our heritage. So, I thought showing our heritage could foster understanding of Korea for Saudis.” Highlighting the robust and ever-strengthening bilateral relations between South Korea and Saudi Arabia, Chang referenced the recent visit of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol to Saudi Arabia in October 2023 and the prior visit of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to Seoul. He remarked that cultural exchanges like this event are crucial in establishing a solid foundation for the partnership between the two nations. The performances featured contemporary and traditional dances, each themed around significant concepts such as self-discovery, the passage of time, interpersonal relationships, and humanity’s connection to nature. Notably, the first dance titled “Who Are You?” prompted reflections on personal identity and purpose, while subsequent pieces further explored themes of perspective and emotional distance. A special cultural highlight was the traditional musical ensemble Samulnori, characterized by the use of four distinct percussion instruments. Kim Wonmin, a professor at the Korean National University of Arts, explained the historical significance of these instruments, stating, “In the past, people tried to alleviate the hardships of work by using the instrument as a tool.” The evening concluded with energetic performances including the Pan Gut and the Lion Dance, both integral to traditional Korean celebrations, emphasizing movement and cultural symbolism. Korea Week will last until November 4, encompassing further events such as taekwondo demonstrations by the Kukkiwon Demonstration Team at two universities in Saudi Arabia. Throughout the festivities, Chang underscored the shared cultural values of kindness prevalent in both Korean and Saudi societies, emphasizing the importance of such traits in the realm of diplomacy: “Diplomacy is all about people, and how you treat people.”

The article presents the commencement of Korea Week 2024 in Riyadh, highlighting various cultural events aimed at promoting mutual understanding between South Korea and Saudi Arabia. It focuses on specific traditional performances, the significance of cultural exchange as a tool for diplomatic relations, and the underlying values shared by both cultures, which foster a harmonious relationship.

In summary, the Korea Week 2024 festivities in Riyadh not only celebrate the richness of Korean culture but also fortify the diplomatic ties between South Korea and Saudi Arabia. Through various performances, the event showcased important aspects of Korean heritage while promoting cultural understanding. As emphasized by Embassy representatives, such initiatives play a crucial role in enhancing bilateral relationships, reflecting the values of kindness and respect that are essential in diplomatic engagements.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com