Seoul, South Korea – A year-long cultural exchange program is underway between South Korea and France, marking , the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The initiative, spearheaded by the South Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, aims to showcase the evolution of Korean culture – its historical roots, contemporary expressions, and future trajectory – to a French audience.
The program operates under the overarching theme of “creativity, opportunity and solidarity,” according to the Ministry. A diverse array of events, including exhibitions, performances, and specialized cultural showcases, are planned throughout the year across France.
The visual arts sector will be prominently featured. Exhibitions showcasing leading Korean artists are scheduled at major French cultural institutions. The “Colors of Korea” exhibition, focusing on modern and digital art, has been running at the Korean Cultural Center in France since . From to , the Fondation Fiminco will host a solo exhibition by Korean media artist Kang Yi-yun, alongside a group show featuring emerging Korean artists.
The Musée Guimet, the National Museum of Asian Arts in Paris, will present a series of high-profile exhibitions dedicated to Korean culture. These include “The Secret of Korean Beauty: From Joseon to K-Beauty” (–), “Silla: Gold and Sacredness” (–), and “Illusion of Knowledge: The Trompe-l’Oeil Art of Korean Painting” (–).
Beyond the visual arts, performing arts exchanges are also a key component of the anniversary celebrations. On , a series of Korean cultural performances will be held at major museums and galleries across Paris, coinciding with the European Night of Museums. The Avignon Festival, a renowned French arts festival, will feature Korea as its official guest language in , presenting leading Korean theater plays, dance works, and related literary and culinary events.
The diplomatic relationship between Korea and France dates back to . This year-long series of events underscores the enduring strength of that relationship and aims to deepen cultural understanding between the two countries. The initiative is intended to build upon a history of collaboration and lay the groundwork for future cooperation in the cultural sphere, according to officials.
The choice of “creativity, opportunity, and solidarity” as guiding themes reflects a deliberate effort to present a multifaceted view of Korean culture. “Creativity” highlights the innovative spirit of Korean artists and designers. “Opportunity” acknowledges the growing economic and cultural ties between Korea and France. And “Solidarity” emphasizes the shared values and mutual respect that underpin the bilateral relationship.
The cultural exchange program is not merely a celebration of the past 140 years, but also a forward-looking initiative designed to strengthen ties for the future. By showcasing the dynamism and diversity of Korean culture, the program seeks to attract further investment, tourism, and collaboration in various fields. The events are expected to reinforce the deep friendship between Korea and France, fostering a more robust and mutually beneficial partnership.
The Fondation Fiminco’s upcoming exhibitions, featuring both established and emerging Korean artists, are particularly noteworthy. Kang Yi-yun’s solo exhibition will provide a platform for a prominent Korean media artist to reach a wider international audience, while the group show of young artists will offer a glimpse into the future of Korean contemporary art. These exhibitions are expected to generate significant interest within the French art community and beyond.
The Musée Guimet’s planned exhibitions demonstrate a comprehensive approach to showcasing Korean culture, spanning historical periods and artistic disciplines. From the traditional beauty practices of the Joseon dynasty to the intricate gold artifacts of the Silla kingdom, and the masterful illusionistic techniques of Korean painting, the exhibitions will offer a rich and nuanced exploration of Korea’s artistic heritage. The focus on “K-Beauty” also acknowledges the global phenomenon of Korean beauty products and their cultural impact.
The selection of Avignon Festival as a key venue for Korean performing arts is a significant development. The festival’s international reputation and its commitment to showcasing innovative and diverse artistic voices will provide a valuable platform for Korean theater and dance to gain exposure in Europe. The inclusion of literary and culinary events alongside the performing arts performances will further enhance the cultural exchange, offering a holistic experience for French audiences.
