Korea Day 2023 in Malaysia

 Visitors to Korea Day 2023 were treated to mesmerising Korean cultural performances.

Hanbok fashion show

The annual event was held from October 5 to 8 at 1 Utama Shopping Centre, one of the largest shopping malls in Malaysia.

I was honoured to receive an invitation from Kim Jong Hwa, the chairman of Korean Society in Malaysia (KSM), to attend the opening ceremony on October 7.

In his speech, Kim Jong Hwa expressed his gratitude to those who attended the 2023 Korea Day event.

“Korea Day has been a day of cultural immersion, entertainment, and culinary delights, and we hope you have had the opportunity to savour the rich tapestry of Korean culture on display.

“We trust that you have made cherished memories today and have gained a deeper appreciation for the beauty of Korean traditions,” he said.

Kim Jong Hwa delivering his welcome speech.

VIPs at the opening ceremony included South Korean ambassador Yeo Seung Bae and A-san City vice mayor Cho Il Gyo.

After the congratulatory address delivered by the VIPs were Korean traditional and cultural performances.

This is the part I look forward to every year as audiences get the rare opportunity to see performances that are not commonly showcased in Malaysia.

First was Bu Chae Chum, a dance performed with fans in hand and is often referred to as the flower of Korean traditional dance. It was the perfect dance performance to kick start the performances for the day at the opening ceremony.

Bu Chae Chum, a dance performed with fans in hand

Next was Seon Sal Puli, a dance performed with fans attached to long silk ribbons, known for its energetic and dynamic movements.

Seon Sal Puli, a dance performed with fans attached to long silk ribbons

The Jinseo Dance, originally performed during court banquets, has been reconstructed to preserve tradition while embracing modern development.

Jinseo Dance, originally performed during court banquets.

Then there’s the Hanbok fashion show. I just love the exquisite designs!

Gayaguem Byeongchang by Kim Si A and Buche Eep Chum dance by Kim Hae Ji.

According to koreamusic.org, Gayageum byeongchang is a performing genre in which a performer sings and plays an instrument at the same time. 

Gayaguem Byeongchang by Kim Si A

Buche Eep Chum dance by Kim Hae Ji

The Tae Kwon Do demonstration by Korea Kuk Ki Won Team wowed audiences with their performances by the flying high kicks and plank breaking stunts.

I wanted to take more photos of the demonstration but was told to move out of the way, perhaps for my safety, in case the planks flew out of the stage.

Tae Kwon Do demonstration by Korea Kuk Ki Won Team

There were Korean food sold at the event.

Often times it is difficult to get vegetarian food at Korean events, especially in Malaysia. We were pleasantly surprised to see “Vege gimbap” sold at the food booth and bought it as we were so hungry.

Unfortunately the “Vege gimbap” we bought contained surimi, even though we asked if it was suitable for vegetarians. RM15 wasted.

The “Vege gimbap” we bought contained surimi

RM15 “Vege gimbap”