By Honorary Reporter Veronica Zuniga from Mexico
Photos = Veronica Zuniga

In the vibrant heart of Mexico City, the annual Mokkoji Korea Festival took place from Oct. 28-29 at the Mexican Olympic Committee. Hosted by the Korean Ministry of Cultural, Sports and Tourism and supervised by the Korean Foundation for International Cultural Exchange, the event attracted lovers of Hallyu like Korean food and culture.

Hallyu enthusiasts were treated to an array of activities that provided unique insights into Korean culture like calligraphy, knot bracelets, traditional games and Hanbok (traditional costumes).  

The Visit Korea booth offered Hallyu enthusiasts a chance to take fun photos. My friend and I tried on accessories to enhance our experience and received two photos along with a bag. The booth also provided valuable information on tourism in Korea such as a traveler's guide. We also showed our support for Busan's bid to host the 2030 World Expo by taking a photo with the event's mascot.

The festival's main attractions included the diverse world of Korean cuisine. Korea Agro-Fisheries Trade Corp.'s Mexico office set up a stand offering samples of Korean food from sweets and snacks to beverages and a beauty booth provided cutting-edge skin checkups using Korean technology, personalized recommendations and Korean masks as souvenirs.

The festival's climax was an electrifying K-pop that drew a crowd of 6,000 starting off with a fusion of Mexican mariachi and Korean samulnori (traditional percussion music), showcasing the harmonious blend of both cultures. The boy band MCND took center stage in delivering a high-energy performance that incorporated the Mexican instrument maracas into the show.

Fellow K-pop act NCT DREAM made its second visit to Mexico. Despite a few technical hiccups during its performance, the boy band received warm support from the audience. One heartwarming moment came when member Renjun spoke in Spanish. The grand finale brought both acts back on stage, where they joined in a commemorative photo to capture the connection they forged with the appreciative audience. 

I consider the Mokkoji Korea Festival more than just a cultural celebration but a testament to the unifying power of music and Mexican appreciation of Korean culture. 

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.