Korea-Belgium Cultural Exchange to Be Enhanced

120th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations Celebration: Special Comic Exhibition, Media Art, and Joint Performances Unfold

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism will hold an event on the 23rd at the Korean Cultural Center in Belgium to commemorate the 120th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and Belgium. Belgium has been designated as a key country for cultural diplomacy this year, featuring a special exhibition of Korean comics and webtoons, media art, and joint performances.

Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Hwang Hee and Belgian Foreign Minister Sophie Wilm?s participated in the opening ceremony via video to celebrate the 120th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries. Minister Hwang stated, "Korea and Belgium have exchanged culture since the Treaty of Amity, Commerce and Navigation (1901), providing joyful and happy moments to the people of both nations. We will make special efforts to be a strong support for each other." Minister Wilm?s also said, "Since promising lasting friendship and peace in 1901, Korea and Belgium have shared joyful and challenging moments in various fields such as culture, economy, and diplomacy. We are pleased to hold various events to celebrate the 120th anniversary of diplomatic relations."

Under the slogan "Friendship Shared Together, Prosperity Enjoyed Together," the two countries will carry out various events. From July to December, a special exhibition of Korean comics and webtoons will be held, and artist Lee Inam will be invited to present media art using classical paintings such as Jeong Seon's Inwangjesaekdo. Korea will also participate as the guest of honor at the international comic festival held in Brussels, introducing not only domestic comics and webtoons but also various traditional cultures such as Hanbok.

The two countries will also hold joint performances. The Korean National Theater (in April next year) and the Belgian Li?ge Theater (in December) will stage a production based on the novel The Vegetarian by Han Kang. In September, a Korean classical music festival will be held in Brussels, and in November, "Belgian Jazz Night" will take place in Seoul.