Korea Week 2024 commenced in Riyadh, showcasing South Korean culture through traditional dances and performances organized by the South Korean Embassy. The event featured notable themes reflective of both contemporary and traditional aspects of Korean culture and emphasized the strengthening relationship between Saudi Arabia and South Korea.
In Riyadh, South Korea has commenced the Korea Week 2024 celebrations, which commenced on Tuesday at Prince Sultan University. The event, organized by the South Korean Embassy, showcased Korean cultural richness through a series of traditional performances. The highlight of the festivities was the Korean Traditional Cultural Day, featuring cultural dances and musical performances by the Korea National University of Arts. Junghoon Chang, a second secretary and consul from the embassy, expressed enthusiasm for broadening awareness of Korean culture in Saudi Arabia, noting, “These K-pops are really based on our heritage. So, I thought showing our heritage could foster understanding of Korea for Saudis.” Chang emphasized the strengthening ties between Saudi Arabia and South Korea, referencing recent diplomatic visits by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to Seoul and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s visit to Riyadh. During the event, attendees were treated to various contemporary and traditional dances, each reflecting significant themes such as self-exploration, temporal dynamics, interpersonal relationships, and humanity’s connection with nature. Notably, performances included, “Who Are You?” which questioned self-identity and purpose, and “Distance,” which illustrated the interplay of love and fear. A segment of traditional performance, Samulnori, showcased the artistry of four percussion instruments representative of natural elements, with performances highlighting Korean philosophies such as yin and yang, as discussed by Professor Kim Wonmin. “We can understand them easily as negative and positive powers. However, in our philosophy, yin and yang are not countering aspects, in fact they are complementary and interdependent,” he explained. Korea Week is set to continue until November 4, with events scheduled throughout the week, including taekwondo demonstrations by the Kukkiwon Demonstration Team. Chang underscored the cultural similarities between Korea and Saudi Arabia, stressing the importance of mutual respect and kindness, stating, “Diplomacy is all about people, and how you treat people.” The festivities underscore the vibrant cultural exchange and mutual respect underpinning the relationship between the two nations.
The Korea Week 2024 celebrations in Riyadh signify a concerted effort to enhance cultural understanding and strengthen ties between South Korea and Saudi Arabia. This initiative highlights the significance of cultural diplomacy, recognizing traditional customs, art forms, and intercultural connections as pivotal in fostering international relationships. It is further underscored by the recent diplomatic engagements between the two countries, promoting collaboration through cultural exchange.
The opening of Korea Week 2024 in Riyadh offers a compelling illustration of the strong cultural and diplomatic ties between South Korea and Saudi Arabia. Through various performances and exhibitions, South Korea aims to share its rich cultural heritage while simultaneously fostering an understanding of its traditions. These exchanges not only enhance mutual respect but also lay a solid foundation for future diplomatic relations, emphasizing the value of kindness and people-oriented diplomacy.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
