WITH THE turn of the tides, Hallyu (Korean Wave) has crashed into the hearts of Filipinos, becoming one of the latest trends in music, clothing, food, cosmetics, and products.
To further strengthen the relationship of the Philippines and Korea, the K-Ribbon Selection served as a gateway to familiarize Filipinos with the origin and evolution of Korean culture. Whether you are an enthusiastic supporter of Korean Pop (K-pop), a passionate viewer of Korean drama, a fervent devourer of Korean food, or an eager tourist of Korea—the exhibit aimed to fulfill your interest in all things Korean!
Visitors were mesmerized by the appetizing arrangement of hansik (Korean food), highlighting reinvented variations of the cabbage kimchi, bibigo rice, gochujang, hangwa, and ginsengkan to name a few.
The sophisticated display of hanbok (Korean clothes) drew curious gazes, as the fabrics sewn and layered with expertise were beautifully embellished with floral patterns.
The handicrafts took center stage as the art form represented the triumphs and struggles of the Korean peninsula. The products, delicately carved in wood and molded in ceramic, held the identity of the nation.
The products had earned the Korean Seal of Excellence for Cultural Products, which certifies the products to promote “Korea premium.” They are recognized valuable works of art that can be purchased in the market.
Using innovative photo technology, visitors also had a glimpse of the early court life by donning the traditional Korean costume; they had the opportunity to imagine themselves as a king, queen, and nobleman/woman. The interactive presentation also framed them in the setting of lovely high-rise temples.
On the other hand, virtual reality transported people to a nocturnal scene where the moon shone brightly over a panorama of Mother Nature. Three cube-shaped buildings were erected on different patches of the terrain. The buildings’ interiors were hollowed and players could walk under any of them to view the majestic paintings of the Joseon Dynasty. The idea was shaped by artist Tae Eun Kim in an attempt to acquaint everyone with Korean history.
After touring the exhibit, visitors were welcomed in the K-pop section to browse through an online catalogue for posh apparel, make-up products, and music albums. Additionally, a large screen attracted fans to watch and jive to popular Korean group artists such as EXO, BTS, f(x), and more.
The Korean Embassy and Korean Cultural Center, in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, successfully organized K-Ribbon Selection: Constancy and Change of Korea at Shangri-La Grand Atrium from November 2 to 8, 2016. F JULIENNE MAUI C. MANGAWANG