By Honorary Reporter Ianina Osgueritchian from Argentina

The Korea Disability Arts and Culture Center (KDAC) on Nov. 11 held a ceremony to mark its 10th anniversary at Modu Art Theater in Seoul's Seodaemun-gu District. Key figures, disabled artists and KDAC staff gathered for the celebration, which included performances.

The event celebrated KDAC's decade of dedication led by Chairwoman Bang Gwi-hee, who has stressed an inclusive arts environment, highlighting past achievements and future directions. The center also announced its slogan "Art for All, a Future We Open Together," reflecting the value and goals of disabled artists.

Clockwise from left are the opening ceremony, event attendees and KDAC members, KDAC Chairwoman Bang Gwi-hee, and unveiling of "SolLa" and "DoRe." (KDAC)

The anniversary celebrated KDAC's efforts over the years to advance disabled artists, beginning with the opening of leum Center, the government's first cultural and artistic institution for people with disabilities to showcase art. Its role expanded with the opening of the theater in 2023 and launch of a priority-purchase system for works by disabled artists, which boosted transactions through the online platform Ieum Art. 

Last year, Modu Art Space opened its doors. Since 2020, Ieum Creative Academy has helped disabled artists develop creativity and artistic skills, focused on training disabled people as art mediators and accessibility experts. These initiatives make KDAC a leading model for inclusive cultural spaces.

Modu Art Theater is on the left and CEO Liz Kim (holding a box ) is on the right. (Ianina Osgueritchian)

The program featured a commemorative video, speeches by Chairwoman Bang and presentations, followed by the day's highlight: live performances. Cho Hyunseong from the Korea Culture and Tourism Institute delivered a presentation on KDAC's contributions both at home and abroad. 

The performances ranged from the globally recognized sign-language K-pop boy band Big Ocean to dance and vocal ensembles. The Zelkova Male Chamber Choir, which performed a song based on a poem by the late poet Lee Sang-yeol, added a layer of profound emotion.

Disabled K-pop boy band Big Ocean performs at KDAC's 10th anniversary ceremony. (KDAC)

KDAC's priorities for 2026 include expanding support for artists, raising accessibility and fostering cultural revitalization. Applications have also opened for a project to support the promotion of arts for disabled people.

As an Honorary Reporter, I attended this event and saw how KDAC isn't just creating art but also building a more inclusive and compassionate world. I conclude with a message to the global art community: Let's embrace diversity, support artists with disabilities and create a future where everyone has a voice.

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.