Photos = Patricia Doreen Celso

This year's Philippine-Korean Cultural Exchange Festival, the 32nd edition organized by the United Korean Community Association (UKCA) and Manila Koreatown Association (MKA), on Sept. 30 marked the 74th anniversary of bilateral ties. 

Held at the shopping mall Robinson's Place Manila, the event was a vibrant testament to the robust collaboration among UKCA, MKA, the Korean Embassy and Korean Cultural Center (KCC) in the Philippines, and National Commission for Culture and the Arts.  

This collage shows the interactive activities that emphasized the festival's mission of cultural exchange.

The festival's hallmark was its engaging and interactive cultural activities. I immersed myself in traditional Korean games like ddakji (flipping folded paper tiles) and jegichagi (kicking a shuttlecock). Another highlight was the kimchi-making workshop, in which a skilled Korean chef explained the intricacies of this condiment. Yet the best part was taking home kimchi that I made. 

Another captivating activity was a Hangeul calligraphy workshop at the KCC booth. With great enthusiasm, we received activity textbooks and brushes to delve into the art of writing in Korean script.  

K-pop-inspired performances by Philippine pop artists further solidified the bond between the two cultures. Korean performers showcased their appreciation for Philippine culture by singing the famous Philippine pop song "Anak" and the traditional Korean song "Arirang." 

Additionally, the attendance of Korean actor Kim Seung-Soo, famous for his role in the K-drama "Jumong," added warmth and hospitality to the event.

The festival features Chuseok customs and traditions.

As the festival coincided with Chuseok, attendees tried gimbap (seaweed rice rolls), kimchi and songpyeon (rice cake). The Manila Koreatown booth offered Yoppoki, a brand of instant tteokbokki (spicy rice cake) and a Hanbok experience, while the Lahat app booth shared gim (laver) to offer the chance to sample Korean flavors.  

With vibrant performances, engaging workshops and interactive activities, the festival featured the deep-rooted connection and shared values between both countries. Reflecting on the history of this remarkable relationship, I look forward to even stronger bilateral collaboration and friendship. 

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article was 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.