By Honorary Reporter Ramona Stefania Tulug from Romania
Photos = Ramona Stefania Tulug

Korea's National Foundation Day commemorates the formation of Gojoseon, the first kingdom on the Korean Peninsula. Observed annually on Oct. 3, it honors Dangun, the mythical founder of the Korean nation.

This year, the Korean Embassy in Romania invited me, a former volunteer, to attend a related celebration on Oct. 2 at the Bucharest National Opera House.

This is the brochure for the National Foundation Day event on Oct. 2 hosted by the Korean Embassy in Bucharest, Romania.

The opening ceremony featured speeches on bilateral relations and cooperation in politics, economy, infrastructure, education, culture and international collaboration by Ambassador to Romania Rim Kap-soo; Romanian Sen. Roberta-Alma Anastase; Romanian Minister of Energy Sebastian-Ioan Burduja; and Traian Laurentiu Hristea, Romanian secretary of state for global affairs and international organizations.

Afterward, the fusion band Ak Dan Gwang Chil (ADG7) performed under the slogan "Let's Dance." Formed in 2015 to mark the 70th anniversary of National Foundation Day, ADG7 reinterprets Korean culture by combining tradition and modernity.

Everyone was surprised when the group sang "Waves of Danube" in Romanian. Its playful rhythms delighted the audience, with the last part of the concert bringing everyone together.

ADG7 performs on stage.

As a Korean major and volunteer in cultural projects, I was inspired by this event to further engage Korean culture. ADG7's unique music sparked my interest in Korean folk songs, with its blend of instruments and vocals transporting me to Korea. 

I hope to see more such events in Romania that allow further exploration and appreciation of Korean culture.

ADG7 poses for photos with visitors at the event's reception. 

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.