The Korean Cultural Centre in South Africa has launched a groundbreaking exhibition that explores the deep connections between contemporary K-Pop hits and Korea's centuries-old musical traditions. "K-Pop Meets Korean Traditional Music" runs from September 26 through November 28, 2025, at the Centre's main gallery, offering visitors an immersive journey into the traditional roots that have shaped today's global Korean music phenomenon.
The exhibition showcases how traditional Korean instruments, rhythms, and performance styles continue to influence modern K-Pop tracks that dominate international charts. Visitors can examine authentic traditional instruments and elaborate royal court dance costumes that have been featured in iconic music videos. Notable examples include the geomungo, Korea's traditional six-string zither, which was prominently featured in BLACKPINK's "Pink Venom," and the dynamic percussion elements referenced in BTS member Suga's "Daechwita" and Stray Kids' "Thunderous."
The exhibition is organized into three distinct thematic sections that capture the full spectrum of Korea's traditional musical heritage. The journey begins with the refined musical traditions that were cherished by Korea's aristocratic circles, progresses through the grandeur and ceremonial aspects of royal court performances, and concludes with the vibrant rhythms and communal spirit of traditional folk music and dance. Large-scale video projections and striking set pieces bring these historical connections to vivid life throughout the gallery space.
A standout feature of the exhibition is the interactive "Gugak Sound Box," a digital installation that provides an immersive experience with Korea's traditional music, known as gugak. This hands-on station allows visitors to experiment with authentic traditional sounds and create their own unique musical blends, making the experience both educational and engaging for guests of all ages.
The exhibition opened with a special performance attended by more than 100 guests, including prominent members of the local arts community and diplomatic corps. The inaugural event featured a dynamic live show that seamlessly blended contemporary K-Pop dance choreography with traditional Korean musical elements, setting an energetic and celebratory tone for the exhibition. Following the performance, attendees participated in a guided tour led by a curator from Korea's National Gugak Center, who provided deeper insights into the historical significance and artistic techniques behind the works on display.
"While K-Pop is loved around the world, its heartbeat is rooted in Korea's own traditional music," said Jiyeol YOU, Director of the Korean Cultural Centre in South Africa. "This exhibition invites visitors to enjoy the excitement of K-Pop while discovering the rich heritage that gave it life." His remarks emphasize the exhibition's mission to highlight the cultural continuity that connects Korea's musical past with its contemporary global success.
The exhibition represents a collaborative effort between multiple Korean cultural institutions and is part of a broader international initiative. It is presented by the Korean Cultural Centre in South Africa in partnership with the National Gugak Center and forms part of "Touring K-Arts," a comprehensive global program supported by Korea's Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST) and the Korean Foundation for International Cultural Exchange (KOFICE). This program is designed to bring outstanding Korean performing arts to diverse audiences around the world, promoting cultural understanding and appreciation.
The exhibition is open to the public on weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., though it remains closed on weekends and public holidays. Admission is completely free, making this cultural experience accessible to all members of the community. The Korean Cultural Centre in South Africa maintains an active online presence through its website at https://sa.korean-culture.org/en and various social media platforms including YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter), where visitors can find additional information and updates about current and upcoming cultural programs.
