'Be Myself and Be Yourself' Practicing the Value of Cultural Diversity

'Cultural Diversity Week' from the 21st for One Week

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Arts Council Korea are hosting 'Cultural Diversity Week' at twenty-four regional cultural foundations across the country. From the United Nations (UN)-designated 'International Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development' on the 21st, a week-long series of international forums, online exhibitions, and public participation events will take place. This year's theme is 'Be Yourself and Be Yourself,' emphasizing the importance of understanding and respecting each other's differences starting from nearby communities to practice the value of cultural diversity.

The most notable event is the 'UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions' international forum held on the 24th at the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Seoul. The forum will discuss domestic and international efforts and challenges to protect and promote the diversity of cultural expressions. Magdalena Moreno Mujica, Secretary-General of the International Federation of Arts Councils and Culture Agencies, along with Professor Han Geonsu from the Department of Anthropology at Kangwon National University, and Professor Lee Kwangseok from the Graduate School of Information Technology Policy at Seoul National University of Science and Technology, will explore changes in the international cultural diversity landscape focusing on cultural policy, media diversity, digital platforms, and artistic freedom.

The twenty-four cultural foundations will offer various programs such as performances, exhibitions, forums, and screenings. These include Guro Cultural Foundation's 'Ordinary Bookstore,' Yeongdeungpo Cultural Foundation's 'Colorful Questions,' Geumjeong Cultural Foundation's 'Different but Good,' and Daejeon Cultural Foundation's 'Children's Cultural Diversity Campaign.' Watcha, Genie Music, and Kyobo Book Centre will host online exhibitions recommending cultural diversity content. A total of 112 films, music pieces, and books embodying the value of cultural diversity will be provided. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism will also hold the '521 Steps Walking Challenge.' Participants who upload certified photos on social networking services (SNS) with the designated core keywords of Cultural Diversity Week will receive mobile cultural gift certificates, limited to the first 1,000 people.