Korea is more than just K-drama and K-pop: It’s K-culture

Many of us, myself included, got our introduction to Korean culture through K-dramas. My first K-drama was Goblin in 2017. I was mesmerized by the story, the enduring theme of eternal love, and the mystery of the afterlife. There were many cultural references I did not understand at the time. I have since watched many dramas, and I particularly like the historical ones such as Mr. Sunshine. I also recently finished watching Pachinko, featuring another chapter of the country’s past.

My musical tastes include K-pop in the mix, too. But like I said, K-drama and K-pop are just a gateway. Korean culture is so much more, and worth exploring.

The Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines (KCC) provides an immersion into their fascinating culture. The center has relocated to its brand-new premises in Taguig, offering visitors a “modern meets traditional” experience. Technology is used to show the country’s traditional culture. It’s so high-tech. Public relations officer Jang Seonji told us that “this meeting of modern and the traditional was conceptualized in 2020 (during the pandemic), though plans for the new building were already in the works five years ago.

“The KCC is quite popular among Filipinos,” Jang says. “An average of 115 people go to the center on Saturdays (it is closed on Sundays), and around 50 people daily on weekends. Entrance is free.”

What greets you upon entering the KCC is an impressive, wall-sized screen of 17 paintings depicting the king’s procession during the Joseon era, from the Museum of Korea. Modern technology animated the paintings so you can actually see the elements moving, with soldiers and the king marching on.

See more at: https://philstarlife.com/geeky/898796-korea-kdrama-kpop-culture?page=2