National Intangible Heritage Center Presents Diverse Showcases, Including K-Festival in Berlin and Tango Performance in Jeonju

Courtesy of National Intangible Heritage Center

In 2023, a reported 8,171 attendees, encompassing both Koreans and foreign nationals, experienced the offerings of Korea's intangible cultural heritage performances, as disclosed by the National Intangible Heritage Center on Thursday.

Operated by the Cultural Heritage Administration, the center organized 36 shows from May to December, primarily held in its headquarters in Jeonju, North Jeolla Province. 

▲ Courtesy of National Intangible Heritage CenterA notable highlight was the K-Festival, a commemorative event held in Berlin on Sept. 26, marking 140 years of diplomatic ties between Germany and Korea. The festival showcased individuals holding intangible cultural heritage, including Kim Jeong-ok, a pottery master known as "sagijang," and Kim Hye-sun, a knitting master referred to as "maedeupjang."

The festival prompted a reconsideration of Korean craftsmanship and performance arts led by masters, with close to 900 locals in attendance, as reported by the center.

The center's initiatives extended beyond Korean heritage, incorporating the cultural legacies of foreign countries. A tango performance on Oct. 13-14 in Jeonju featured the Argentinian orchestra La Orquesta Tipica Andariega, recognized for its contribution to a "new danceable tango based on a solid foundation of classic tango."

In 2009, UNESCO acknowledged the tango as part of its Intangible Cultural Heritage list following requests from Argentina and Paraguay.

Post the October tango show, the center offered separate programs to engage participants interested in learning about the dance, with 944 attendees reported.

A senior official at the National Intangible Heritage Center revealed plans for an upcoming show in the South American country in the following year. The show aims to explore traditional and contemporary Korean music and art, including K-pop. Approximately 50 people, including performers and staff, are anticipated to travel to South America in November for this venture, according to the official.

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