A comprehensive Korean cultural festival is set to take place in Canberra from September 19-28, 2025, offering residents and visitors an immersive experience into Korean music, literature, and arts. The event, titled 'K-Culture in Canberra,' will be presented in partnership with Immersia-ANU School of Culture, History & Language and ANU Harry Hartog, featuring multiple venues including ANU Harry Hartog and Street Theatre.
The festival's highlight will be a free K-Pop cover dance workshop led by KINKY, one of Korea's most renowned choreographers. The workshop is designed to accommodate participants of all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced K-Pop enthusiasts eager to learn from an industry professional. Participants will have the opportunity to master the latest K-Pop dance moves and choreography techniques directly from a leading figure in the Korean entertainment industry.
Literature enthusiasts can participate in a special Korean Book Club session featuring Kim Keum Hee, the acclaimed author of 'The Grand Greenhouse Repair Report' and 'Diary of a Plant Parent.' The session will also include Clare Richards, who translated the English editions of these works. This unique opportunity will allow attendees to discover the stories behind the novels and gain insights into the intricate art of bringing Korean literature to international readers through translation.
A special literary discussion will explore 'We Do Not Part' by Nobel Prize-winning author Han Kang. The conversation will be moderated by Kate Evans, co-host of ABC Radio National's weekly review program, alongside Beejay Silcox, a respected writer and critic, and Eliza Jung, International Program Officer at Creative Australia. This panel discussion promises to provide deep insights into one of Korea's most celebrated contemporary literary works.
The festival will conclude with Korean Literature Week, providing Australian book lovers with a rare opportunity to explore a carefully curated selection of highly acclaimed Korean literature titles available in English translation. Books will be available for purchase at ANU Harry Hartog starting Friday, September 19th, allowing visitors to continue their exploration of Korean culture through literature long after the festival ends.
