By Honorary Reporter Febrina Gita Grahita from Indonesia
Photos= Febrina Gita Grahita

The Korean Cultural Center (KCC) in Jakarta, Indonesia, has held events in several cities in Java, but recently held its first in East Kalimantan, specifically in the city of Balikpapan. My hometown Samarinda is around two hours away from Balikpapan, which is also home to SAMS Sepinggan International Airport. The airport last year was named the world's best airport that gets five million to 15 million passengers per year by Airports Council International.

The KCC held the event "Korean Culture Experience" on Feb. 9 at E-walk Balikpapan Superblock, attracting a host of Hallyu and Korea fans. The massive crowds that assembled at the Atrium area made it standing room only.

Before the performance began, KCC Director Chun Young-poung extended his greetings, followed by a welcoming speech by Balikpapan Mayor Rizal Effendi. That day was also special as the city marked its 123rd anniversary. To celebrate this occasion, both the mayor and the KCC chief jointly held the festival in the city.

The taekwondo demonstration team N-Lions enthralled the crowd with its technique and acrobatic moves. Next up was a social media influencer and then contestants of the talent contest Bintangnya Bintang 2020.

Other activities included visitors trying on Hanbok (traditional Korean costume), learning Hangeul, traditional Korean games and crafts, and tasting Korean snacks and food. Many took photos while wearing Hanbok and uploaded them on Instagram. The KCC, as usual, gave many gifts to visitors.

One visitor named Lea said, "I'm so happy that the KCC in Jakarta held an event in Balikpapan and for this chance to attend the Korean Festival. I received many gifts from the KCC, tasted Korean snacks, colored and wrote on paper at the craft stand and wore Hanbok. I was so excited because I knew about the KCC for a long time, and when I heard that it would hold the Korean Festival in Balikpapan, I attended it. I hope the KCC visits this city again."

Many visitors said they were very satisfied with this event, and they said they hope the KCC will come again or visit another town near the area such as my hometown Samarinda. We eagerly await an announcement from KCC director Chun that makes our wish come true.

chaey0726@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean