[K-wave] Korean arts groups perform at Berlin State Opera to support Jeonju's Olympic bid

The dance and music troupes of the Jeonbuk State Gukak Center have become the first Korean traditional arts groups to perform at the Berlin State Opera. Cha Yun-kyung tells us more about the performances, including why they took place in Germany's capital.

One of the world's leading opera houses the Berlin State Opera is situated in the heart of the German capital, also home to Berlin Cathedral and the Berlin TV Tower.

The sound of samulnori busking heightened the excitement at the front of Berlin State Opera.

An original dance drama, "Kosumseom," created by the Jeonbuk State Gukak Center, was staged during the first-ever performances by the Korean traditional arts troupes.

"Kosumseom," which is also the ancient name for Wido in Buan-gun County, Jeonbuk State, is a modern interpretation of Wido's traditional memorial service, "Ttibae-nori," a National Intangible Cultural Asset.

Members of the Korean community in Germany; Hans-Ulrich Seidt, the former German ambassador to Korea and now honorary ambassador of Jeonbuk State; and members of local arts communities came to see the performances.

All 1-thousand-300 tickets available were sold.

"These performances are to kick start cultural diplomacy overseas to inform people about Jeonju of Jeonbuk State, and its bid to host the Olympics."

At a reception following the performances, former German Ambassador to Korea Hans-Ulrich Seidt was appointed as an honorary ambassador of Jeonbuk State.

"It's a great honor to be an honorary ambassador of Jeonbuk State here."

With cultural events overseas, expectations are rising for Jeonju's bid for the 2036 Summer Olympics.

Cha Yun-kyung, Arirang News.