In a dazzling display of cultural fusion, the Korean Cultural Centre in Pretoria recently hosted a fashion show that seamlessly blended the traditions of South Africa and Korea.
The event was organised in partnership with the King Sejong Institute Foundation as part of its initiative, with aims to deepen the understanding of Korean culture abroad and promote cultural exchange.
Held on Saturday, the event was a testament of the power of cultural exchange and the beauty of shared heritage, and was led by renowned Hanbok expert Dr Sunyoung Park.
As the light dimmed and the music pulsed, a parade of stunning models took to the runway, showcasing an array of Hanbok, Korea’s traditional dress, infused with the vibrant colours and textures of the South African traditional clothing.
Park said he was thrilled by the exchanged of fashion between Korea and South Africa.
“It was such an enlightening experience for me as I discovered and learned about the beauty of the traditional South African clothing from the participants, rather than I taught the participants,” he said.
He added that, since he arrived in South African, he has been exploring local shops and collecting stunning colourful fabrics.
“I cannot wait to incorporate these South African cultural elements into our Hanbok designs in the future,” he said.
The event also featured lecturers on types of traditional and modern Hanbok, as seen in popular Korean dramas and K-pop which have captivated audiences in South Africa.
A student from the centre’s Korean language programme, Gladina Masilela said, it was an extraordinary day for her as she was honoured to present and showcase the traditional dress of Korea, which she fell in love with.
“I am proud of my heritage and I am also proud of being a South Africa, I felt very honoured to be part of those who were modelling in the fashion show. Both countries have marvellous traditions and boast such beautiful aesthetics in traditional clothes, and today was a celebration of these beautiful heritages, I am thrilled to have been part of it,” she added.
Park said that this event was a refreshing reminder of the beauty and the strength that comes from unity and exchange.
“As we look into the future, may we continue to weave vibrant threads of unity celebrating our differences while embracing our shared unity,” he said.
Pretoria News
lesego.montso@inl.co.za