During the 33rd Paris Olympics, which begins on July 26, Korea will present the largest-ever "Korea House" to showcase a wide range of Korean culture. Organized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism along with the Korean Olympic Committee, this event will run from July 25 to August 11. It aims to introduce Korean culture to a global audience through various programs and activities.
The History and Role of Korea House
Korea House has been a part of the Olympic tradition since the 2004 Athens Olympics, serving as a hub for supporting Korean athletes and conducting sports diplomacy. At this year's Paris Olympics, Korea House will continue to fulfill its original role while also acting as a cultural complex to present the diverse attractions of Korean culture. The 2024 Paris Olympics are notable for being the first to reopen to the public since the pandemic, the first to host an outdoor opening ceremony, and the first to be held in Paris in 100 years, making it a significant global event that is expected to draw a large audience.
A Variety of Programs at Korea House
Cultural Experience Events by the Korea Tourism Organization
From July 27 to 31, the Korea Tourism Organization will hold a series of cultural experience events focusing on K-pop, K-beauty, and K-food. These events will feature K-pop cover dance performances and B-boying shows, as well as dance lessons where visitors can participate. Additionally, activities that attract international interest, such as Korean snack packages, makeup demonstrations, and personal color consultations, will be offered.
Joint Dance Performance by Korean and French Youth
The Korea Arts & Culture Education Service is organizing a joint dance performance called “Project S.O.N.”, which will bring together Korean and French youth. This performance, themed around the Olympic spirit of harmony and friendship, will feature young participants from Korea and France who are interested in Korean culture. Directed by renowned Korean choreographer Eun-Me Ahn, the performance is a collaboration between Eun-Me Ahn Company and the French non-profit dance group DaPoPa.
Hanbok Fashion Show by the Korea Craft and Design Foundation
To promote the beauty of Hanbok, the Korea Craft and Design Foundation will host a Hanbok fashion show as part of the "Korea Day" pre-event on August 1. The Korea National Ballet will also present performances in Paris, the birthplace of ballet, showcasing the global talent of Korean ballet through a combination of classical ballet and creative works that blend ballet with traditional Korean music.
Literary Events by the Publication Industry Promotion Agency of Korea
The Publication Industry Promotion Agency of Korea aims to elevate Korean literature's international standing through various literary events. These include live painting shows by picture book author Lee Ki-hoon, literary talks featuring Korean authors Baek Su-rin and Yun Ko-eun alongside French author Bernard Minier, and other book concerts to promote the Hallyu wave in publishing.
Global Expansion of Korean Culture
Fusion of K-pop and Korean Tourism
The Korea Tourism Organization, in partnership with "Hybe," will introduce major Korean tourist attractions and cultural events visited by K-pop artists. There will also be an exhibition of stage costumes worn by K-pop performers, and visitors can dress in both traditional and modern Hanbok to take commemorative photos against the backdrop of Korean tourist sites. This initiative will be complemented by exhibits that highlight the essence of Korean traditional culture.
Korean Ceramics and Media Art
The Korea Foundation for International Cultural Exchange, in collaboration with the Korea Ceramic Foundation, will hold an exhibition of Korean ceramics to share the beauty of Korean pottery with the world. The Korea Creative Content Agency will showcase media art using new technology and convergence content, including works that capture the natural landscapes of Korea and incorporate elements of K-pop and Korean game content.
Korean Film and Cuisine
CJ Group will introduce Korean cultural content through films, food, and music. Meanwhile, "Photoism" will offer frame photography services with Korean national athletes and K-pop singers. Cass will operate a booth replicating a Korean street food stall, and Paris Baguette will present its products to local audiences.
Supporting Athletes and Sports Diplomacy
Korea House will also fulfill its role as a support hub for Korean athletes participating in the Olympics. During the games, it will provide a rest area for athletes and host cheering events for competitions involving Korean athletes. "Hybe" will supply cheering sticks, promising a unique support experience. Medal ceremonies and interviews will be held for athletes who win medals, and on August 10, the day before the closing ceremony, a "Team Korea Day" event will celebrate the achievements of the athletes who participated in the Olympics.
Promoting International Sports Exchange
Korea House will host the "Korea Day" event, inviting officials from international organizations such as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to promote international sports exchange. Additionally, a permanent exhibition will be set up to showcase the history of Korean sports and successful international events hosted by Korea, highlighting the country's sports diplomacy capabilities.
Conclusion and Expectations
A spokesperson from the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism emphasized, "This Paris Olympics marks the first time that various related organizations are directly participating in Korea House, making it the largest operation to date." Moving forward, Korea House will not only support athletes and sports diplomacy but also serve as a cultural hub that introduces Korean culture to global audiences visiting the Olympics through a variety of engaging content.
Located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, Korea House boasts excellent accessibility and occupies the entire three-story building of "Maison de la Chimie" (House of Chemistry), which includes a large theater and small performance spaces. Visitors can make free reservations through the Korea House website.
Through the 33rd Paris Olympics, Korea House will play a crucial role in showcasing the vibrant culture of Korea and its capabilities in sports diplomacy to the world. We look forward to welcoming many visitors who will experience Korean culture and cheer for Korean athletes.
