Korean dancers perform during the 11th Korea-Arab friendship caravan at the Abdulhussein Abdulredha Theater in Kuwait City on October 20, 2018. — Photo by Yasser Al-Zayyat

Hosted by the Korea-Arab Society, the 11th Korea-Arab Friendship Caravan was held on Saturday at the Abdulhussein Abdulredha Theater in Salmiya. Hong Youngki, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Kuwait, welcomed guests at the standing-only venue. "I am very honored to see the crowd today. This is a full house and people are standing at the back. Cultural exchange has been part of Kuwait and Korea relations and we are drawing closer and closer each year," Hong said.

The Korea-Arab Society is a non-profit organization funded by Korean and Arab governments, business entities and relevant organizations. It aims to enhance cooperation between Korea and Arab countries, especially in the area of cultural, economic, educational and academic exchange.

The audience was treated to a non-stop repertoire of traditional Korean music and dance, such as the ensemble of four percussionists (Sando Seoljanggu), traditional dance (Yeonheungmu) and traditional folk dances (salpuri and pangut). Gugak was also performed and applauded by attendees, as it represents the generations and traces of history in Korean culture. B-Boy also performed Marrionette, a hip-hop-inspired dance which demonstrated choreography to tell the story.

Dr Bader Al-Duweesh, National Council for Culture, Art and Letters (NCCAL) Assistant Secretary General for Art, said the musical event was co-organized by NCCAL to highlight the importance of cultural exchange of both countries.

By Ben Garcia