Text and photos by Marinel Peroy
South Korea’s emerging cultural economy, also known as the “Korean Wave” (Hallyu), continuously flourishes globally including in the Philippines. Beyond binge-watching Korean dramas (K-dramas), supporting your bias toward K-pop groups or artists, or trying out new Korean food in the metro, there is always something more to discover in Korean culture.
Starting the year 2024 with cultural exploration, the collaboration of the National Museum of Korea and the Korean Cultural Center (KCC) in the Philippines brings Korea closer to the Philippines through immersive exhibits. The Endless Landscape: Digitally Reimagined Korean Art not only promotes The Republic of Korea’s (ROK) art and design in the Philippines but also celebrates the 75 long years of cordial diplomatic relations with the country.
A celebration of Korean-Philippine arts, culture, and friendship
In his opening remarks, Korean Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Sang-hwa, underscored that this tapestry of Korean culture, through the Hallyu wave is now being enjoyed in the mainstream, a testament that proves to be appreciated in the form of arts, music, and storytelling.
“I hope that it will showcase Korea’s rich tradition and substantiate its position as a digital powerful that can further strengthen our bilateral partnership [with the Philippines],” stated H.E. Lee Sang-hwa.
To continuously promote mutual exchange between Korea and the Philippines, a series of events celebrating this diplomatic juncture will be celebrated in many forms at KCC, including a Korea Festival and K-drama OST concert.
The Opening Ceremony was kicked off with a vicinity filled with harmony brought by Ju Bora (Gayageum performer) – strings instrument as well as Kim Insoo (Janggu performer) – percussion instrument. Afterward, a touch of Filipino was showcased through the Bayanihan, The National Dance Company of the Philippines with their folk dance performances.
Meanwhile, Ms. Chorong Shim from the Exhibition Division at the National Museum of Korea introduced the four immersive videos to the visitors, which were also produced by Chuncheon National Museum.
- Pillars of Divinity, Chongseok Rocks (4:30 minutes)
Located in the Tongcheon, Gangwondo Province, the Chongseok Rocks are considered a spectacular landscape attraction that inspired a myriad of artists — ranging from writers and painters. Crafted in 1920 by calligrapher and painter Kim Gyujin, he was commissioned by Sunjong of the Korean Empire, and the 8.8-meter-long painting was displayed in his office in Changdeokgung Palace. This artwork has a stunning view of hexagonal rock pillars along the coast, bringing the divinity to be witnessed by many.
- Peonies in Bloom (2:34 minutes)
Indeed, this exhibition of Korean culture in the Philippines also manifests as a springboard to endless possibilities of continued trust, friendship, and mutual respect.
Discover more of Korean art reimagined in a virtual immersive experience (from 9 AM to 4 PM) until June 29, 2024, located on the 5th floor, Multipurpose Hall, Korean Cultural Center, 59 Bayani Road, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Happy 75 years of friendship, Korea and the Philippines!
감사합니다 / Gamsahamnida / Thank you
***This exhibition has been organized by the National Museum of Korea as part of the NMK Overseas Korean Galleries Support Program.***