By Honorary Reporter Patricia Doreen Celso from Philippines
Photos = Patricia Doreen Celso and Korean Cultural Center (KCC) in Taguig

The Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines and the Philippine National Commission for Culture and Arts on Nov. 8 jointly celebrated Hanbok Day and the 74th anniversary of bilateral ties at the event "Threads of Tradition: A Celebration of Korean and Philippine Traditional Attire," which was held at Leandro Locsin Auditorium in the Intramuros district of Manila.

Ateneo de Manila University professor Sun Jung-woo (left) discusses the history of Hanbok (left) and University of the Philippines-Diliman professor Marilyn Canta gives a lecture on Filipiniana.

The event showcased the rich cultural heritage of both countries by illuminating the beauty and historical significance of Korea's Hanbok and the Philippines' Filipiniana. Known for its vibrant colors and flowing silhouette, Hanbok is the traditional attire of Koreans and Filipiniana, with its elegant ensembles and intricate designs, represents the traditional clothing of Filipinos. Sun Jung-woo, professor of Korean studies at Ateneo de Manila University, and Marilyn Canta, a professor of art studies at the University of Philippines-Diliman, shared their insights on the elegance and heritage of both styles.

From left to right are a panel discussion and Q&A; Sun receiving an award; Canta getting an honor; and a snapshot of attendees of the event.

A panel discussion explored cultural appropriation and collaboration in the context of Hanbok and Filipiniana. Canta stressed approaching any innovation in cultural attire with sensitivity and respect to preserve cultural integrity. Sun highlighted the need to safeguard Hanbok as part of the Korean identity and discussed challenges in preserving its heritage.

From left to right are attendees at snack time; Philippine pork BBQ and Korean japchae (glass noodles with stir-fried vegetables); trying on both Hanbok and Filipiniana; and attendees at both the Hanbok and Filipiniana try-on section and photo booth.

A cultural food exchange offered a delightful array of Korean and Philippine dishes, with guests trying Korean favorites like japchae (glass noodles with stir-fried vegetables) and Philippine delights including pork barbeque and empanada. Visitors also tried on Hanbok and Filipiniana and took snapshots at a photo booth with traditional house facades from both countries.

Visitors try on Filipiniana (left) and Hanbok (center to far right) at the photo booth zone, with the backdrop showing traditional Philippine (left) and Hanok (right) facades.

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.