Understanding and Respecting Cultural Differences... Next Week is 'Cultural Diversity Week'

This Year's Theme is 'Diverse Values, All Together'
Policy Forum, Concert, Special Lectures Held

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Arts Council Korea are hosting the 'Cultural Diversity Week' from the 21st to the 27th in collaboration with twelve regional cultural and artistic institutions. This event runs for one week starting from the 'International Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development (May 21),' designated by the United Nations (UN) in 2015.

Now in its 9th year, this year's theme is 'Various Values, All Together.' The program includes policy forums, concerts, special lectures, public participation events, and regional planning events. A Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism official stated, "Through the value of cultural diversity that understands and respects each other's cultural differences, we aim to create a community where all members of society live together harmoniously."

The policy forum will be held on the 25th at the National Folk Museum of Korea, linked with the launch ceremony of the University Diversity Council. It will examine the current status of cultural diversity in public institutions and private companies, efforts to promote cultural diversity by universities, private companies, and civil society organizations, as well as future tasks. The forum seeks new perspectives to respond to various social crises such as diseases and explores solutions through culture and the arts.

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism is also operating the 'Cultural Diversity Content Curation Exhibition' in partnership with Kyobo Book Centre, Watcha, and Genie Music. Young special curators, including novelist Cheon Seon-ran, will introduce about 100 works in film, music, and books. On the 27th, a Diversity Concert will be held at Yeouido Mulbit Stage. Singers Harim and Younha, musical actor Kai, popera group Poet, and traditional Korean music a cappella group Toris are scheduled to perform.

Talk concerts and expert lectures on the theme of cultural diversity will take place from the 21st to the 26th at Seoul Forest Understand Avenue. Participants include novelist Jang Kang-myeong, actress Chu Sang-mi, and Crying Nut band leader Han Kyung-rok, who will explore everyday topics from the perspective of cultural diversity through stories and performances. A nationwide 'Coloring Challenge' event expressing the joy of diversity, in collaboration with three illustrators including Myung Min-ho, will be held both online and offline.

Jeong Hyang-mi, Director of Cultural Policy at the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, said, "We hope that increased public interest and understanding of the value of cultural diversity will strengthen solidarity and cohesion among members and accelerate the resilience of our society." For more details about the event, please refer to the official Cultural Diversity Week website and social media channels.