The Seoul Metropolitan Government conducted a Seoul Culture Experience for over 80 contestants of the Miss Global Beauty Queen (MGBQ) from more than 50 countries, who visited Seoul to attend the 2011 MGBQ event on May 8.

The event participants had an opportunity to appreciate the Joseon’s elegant royal culture at Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul’s representative royal palace with a 600-year history, on May 8. They also experienced the traditional living culture of the Korean people at the National Folk Museum of Korea.

The participants also visited Insa-dong, where tradition and modern culture co-exist, and went on a riverboat cruise on the Hangang, a major landmark of the Korean capital. As the final leg of their cultural experience event, they also enjoyed the harmony of Seoul’s modern images and nature in N Seoul Tower, one of the city’s hottest attractions.

Marking its 24th anniversary this year, the MGBQ is a beauty contest boasting a time-honored tradition and dignity. The final competition of the Seoul event took place at Seoul Plaza at 6 pm on May 10.

* Government press release (May 12)