Young Korean Artists Enchant Egyptian Audiences with Performances Bridging Tradition and Modernity

South Korea marked the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Egypt through two gala concerts that celebrated the richness of Korea’s artistic heritage alongside its modern creativity.

Presented under the theme “Korea Music Caravan: From Tradition to Global”, the performances were staged at the American University in Cairo on August 26 and at the Anfushi Cultural Palace in Alexandria on August 28.

The program was hosted by the Korean Cultural Center in Egypt and organized by the Dong-A Ilbo as part of the 2025 Touring K-Arts Project, supported by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST) and the Korean Foundation for International Cultural Exchange (KOFICE). This initiative brings Korean culture to audiences worldwide, spotlighting emerging talent while fostering global cultural exchange.

15 outstanding artists, including winners of the prestigious Dong-A Gugak Competition, presented a vibrant repertoire of traditional and contemporary works. Highlights included pansori (Sugungga), sogochum, Hanryangmu, Samulnori, as well as innovative crossovers blending Korea’s classical forms with modern artistic expression.

The evening also featured excerpts from the Korean musical Hatshepsut, inspired by Egypt’s pioneering female pharaoh, and from Sopyeonje, the iconic Korean musical drama that interweaves the profound resonance of pansori with the expressive power of contemporary musical theatre.

Both concerts drew enthusiastic audiences, underscoring the growing interest in Korean culture among Egyptians. One attendee remarked, “I was able to experience the depth of Korean traditional culture alongside its global resonance.”

Oh Sung-ho, Director of the Korean Cultural Center in Egypt, stated, “This performance provided a meaningful opportunity for Korea and Egypt to share and deepen mutual cultural understanding.”

As a flagship cultural initiative, the Touring K-Arts Project continues to showcase Korea’s creative excellence on the global stage, offering young artists valuable international experience while strengthening cultural ties across borders.