South Korean festival introduces country’s culture to Jeddawis
The South Korean General Consulate recently staged a two-day cultural event in Jeddah. The Korea Festival, held at the city’s Korean International School, was aimed at introducing South Korean culture to Jeddawis.
Among the activities taking place were a calligraphy workshop, cooking and handicraft sessions, a traditional outfits zone, a photo booth, karaoke, an exhibition of artifacts, and food stalls.
Visitors to the calligraphy workshop were shown how to write in different Korean styles, while those attending the handicraft section could learn the art of making paper bags and coloring a paper fan. Cooking sessions gave an insight into South Korean cuisine including bibimbap, a dish consisting of rice, vegetables, meat, and fried egg, and kimchi, a pickle-like fermented cabbage served as a side. South Korean street food such as sodduk and seasoned chicken was on sale at the food stalls.
In the karaoke zone people danced, and sang their favorite K-pop tunes, while some of the event organizers took turns singing traditional Korean songs.
A display of artifacts included a crown, traditional outfits, paintings, weapons, vases, jewelry boxes, and utensils.
Consul General Byoung Jin Han said: “I would like to thank everyone here for attending the festival and for your love and interest in South Korean culture. Although there are things related to the Korean culture that are missing in this event, I do hope everyone has a good time.” The diplomat noted that the best way to get to know and understand South Korean culture was by visiting the country.