The Korean Cultural Center Washington, D.C. (KCCDC) proudly presents Beyond the Scene, a special exhibition featuring hit Korean webtoons The Red Sleeve and Jeong-Nyeon that highlights the narrative and artistic prowess of this wildly popular scrolling digital medium that has been adapted to stage and screen.
Presented in partnership with the Korea Manhwa Contents Agency, known as KOMACON, and celebrating the 70th anniversary of the Korea-US Alliance in 2023, the exhibition run through October 25 in Washington, D.C. and launches with a public opening celebration on Saturday, September 30 including live traditional and K-Pop performances, cultural experiences, concert ticket and merchandise raffles, photo zones, arts and crafts, and remarks from the exhibition organizers (1:00 – 6:00 p.m.).
Beyond the Scene highlights the new perspectives of technology-based consumers and the traditional Korean culture brought to life through the unique medium of webtoons. Through lush print and digital displays in English, the exhibition showcases the rich narratives, visual elements, and diverse themes explored in today’s webtoons, which evolved out of traditional literature, history, and print comics.
This special exhibition is divided into three thematic sections: From History to Story: The Red Sleeve, With Memories and Records: Jeong-Nyeon, and Journey to K-Heritage, each with different stories and context to explore.
Premiered as a webtoon in 2021 and still in production today, The Red Sleeve (옷소매 붉은 끝동) became the basis for the hit 2022 K-drama of the same name. This period romance recounts the fictional relationships of King Jeongjo during Korea’s 18th century Joseon Dynasty. Jeong-Nyeon (정년이), published 2019-2022 and now slated for future stage musical and screen adaptations, focuses on the perspectives of women in the world of traditional theater during the post-Korean War era.
Both works are vivid representations of the creative prowess of K-webtoon creators and emphasize the importance of genuine human communication and understanding, analogous to the long-standing bond between South Korea and the United States.
Beyond the Scene will remain on view from September 30 through October 25, 2023, including the special opening celebration on Saturday, September 30, 1:00 – 6:00 p.m. (KCCDC regular walk-in hours: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., excluding 12 – 1 p.m., Monday – Friday). No RSVP is required for the opening celebration or during regular walk-in hours.
For more information visit the KCCDC's website: https://washingtondc.korean-culture.org/en/1126/board/890/read/125706