By Honorary Reporter Alexandra Polcovnicu from Romania
Photos = Andrei Iacob

I attended from Aug. 2-6 the International Folk Festival in Vaslui, Romania, aka Hora of Ancestors, featuring the cultures of nine countries including Korea's.

The biennial event has always surprised visitors with diverse performances of each nation's folklore. I decided to attend because of my interest in traditional cultures and the importance of embracing my nation's cultural heritage.

This scene is from the third day of Hora of Ancestors on Aug. 4 in Vaslui, Romania.

A performance of Korean folklore was presented by Choi Eun Jung Dance Company, which was formed in 1989 to advance Korean dance and maintain its tradition. The company made a name for itself from its traditional, creative and dramatic performances, winning awards in both domestic and international contests.

This year was the first for the festival to include Korea, something leading to high expectations from visitors. On opening day, the company took part in an ensemble parade that presented several performances including buchaechum (fan dance) across Vaslui.

Buchaechum (fan dance) 

On the third day, a large audience greeted the Korean dance group with their feet up. The ensemble presented court dances traditionally performed for the royal family and other works like hakchum, a crane dance inspired by shamanic rituals to ward off evil spirits. 

Moreover, buchaechum (fan dance) attracted big applause with its elegant dance steps, fan moves and display of Hanbok (traditional costume) The performance of the gayageum, a traditional zither of 12 or more strings, was another highlight.

Hakchum (crane dance) 

The final day of the festival saw each performing troupe present encore performances that elicited enthusiastic responses from the audience.

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 Korean.