A distinguished gathering of diplomats, cultural leaders, and arts enthusiasts came together Tuesday evening for an exclusive lecture on opera at the Peruvian ambassador's residence in Seoul. The special event, titled "Opera Essentials: Bel Canto," was presented by Bahk Sahng-hoon, former Korean ambassador to Spain, and organized by the Corea Image Communication Institute (CICI).

The lecture explored the profound impact of opera as an art form, with Ambassador Bahk discussing how bel canto serves as a powerful medium that transcends cultural boundaries to bring people together. The presentation emphasized opera's unique ability to add depth and richness to human life through its combination of music, drama, and vocal artistry.

The intimate gathering attracted a notable lineup of distinguished attendees from various sectors. In the front row were Lee Sung-ju, former president of the Korea National Institute for the Gifted in Arts; Didier Beltoise, president of Cs; Kim Kwi-yeon, president of CITIAP; and Choi Jung-wha, president of CICI, who served as the event's host organization.

The second row featured an impressive array of diplomatic and business leaders, including Choi Sung-soon, president of MID; Bang Eugene, chairman of Millenasia; and Jeanette Somocurcio, spouse of the Peruvian ambassador. Also present were Paul Duclos, the Peruvian ambassador who graciously hosted the event at his residence, along with Julio Herraiz Espana, the Spanish ambassador to Korea.

The evening also brought together prominent figures from the international business community and former government officials. Sean Blakeley, chairman of the British Chamber of Commerce Korea (BCCK), attended alongside Mehmet Ilker, general manager of Turkish Airlines Korea, and his spouse Tugba Er Basaran. Lee Ji-soo, former Blue House secretary for foreign press, rounded out the distinguished guest list.

This cultural diplomacy event highlighted the continuing role of the arts in fostering international relationships and cultural exchange within Seoul's diplomatic community. The gathering demonstrated how classical art forms like opera continue to serve as bridges between different cultures and nationalities in South Korea's capital.