By Honorary Reporter Ana Caroline Bergamaschi Farias from Brazil
Photos = Ana Caroline Bergamaschi Farias

Entrance of the exhibition

The Korean Cultural Center (KCC) in Sao Paolo, Brazil, from June 17 to Aug. 20 will host "Lights of Korea: Jinju City Exhibition." Organized by the KCC and Jinju City Hall, the event displays lantern structures from the Royal Cultural Festival at Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival. I was invited to the pre-opening event along with creators and other guests.

The origins of the festival go back to the 1592 siege of Jinjuseong Fortress in Jinju, Gyeongsangnam-do Province, by Japanese invaders during the Imjinwaeran War; the floating lights on the Namgang River were part of a military strategy. Seeing the lanterns, I wondered what it would feel like to see them while at the river.

A mass of beautifully designed lanterns decorate the exhibition's light tunnel.

The exhibition had lanterns with a myriad of designs, colors and elements. My favorite was one modeled after the mugunghwa (rose of Sharon), Korea's national flower. A tunnel of lanterns made from Jinju silk made me feel like I was in a magical place, with their beauty amazing all of the visitors.

Visitors read panels containing information on Jinju, Gyeongsangnam-do Province.

Another section shows pictures and videos of Jinju to give visitors a sample of the festival. When it comes to Korean culture, the content featured is usually focused on big cities like Seoul and Busan. Through this exhibition, however, many Brazilians unfamiliar with Korean culture can learn about the rich culture of Jinju.

msjeon22@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.