Gyeongju, South Korea – The city of Gyeongju, a living museum of Korean history and culture, is set to host a spectacular series of traditional Korean performances to celebrate the 2025 APEC Summit. Titled ‘Seorabeol Pungnyu,’ the event will run from August 23 to October 29 at Gyeongju's most iconic locations, offering a unique and authentic glimpse into Korea's rich artistic heritage.
Presented by the Foundation for the Promotion of Traditional Performing Arts (KOTPA), the series aims to introduce the beauty of traditional Korean performing arts to both domestic and international tourists visiting Gyeongju for the APEC Summit.
The 'Seorabeol Pungnyu' series will feature a wide range of genres, from pure traditional arts, which form the bedrock of K-Culture, to contemporary creative Korean music (gugak). The performances will showcase the talents of renowned arts organizations from across the country, as well as talented local groups selected through a competitive process.
Audiences will be treated to a total of 44 free performances held at historic and picturesque venues, including the Yukbuchon, Gyochon Village, and the Cheomseongdae Observatory, creating a truly immersive experience where history and art converge.
A Journey Through Time: The Yukbuchon Stage
The first performances will take place starting August 23 at the historic Yukbuchon, a designated industrial heritage site of Gyeongsangbuk-do Province. Built in 1979 for the PATA (Pacific Asia Travel Association) General Assembly, this building was Korea's first-ever convention center. Remarkably, it has remained largely unchanged for 45 years, offering visitors a rare opportunity to appreciate both Korea's modern history and traditional arts in one setting.
The initial shows will feature performances by the National Gugak Center in Busan, local arts groups, the Bongsan Talchum Preservation Society, and gugak departments from universities in the Yeongnam region.
Captivating Performances at Gyochon Village and Cheomseongdae
Beginning in September and continuing through October, the series will expand to include stages at Gyochon Village and the Cheomseongdae Observatory. These performances will feature a blend of creative gugak and large-scale outdoor spectacles by leading regional arts groups on a specially constructed stage at Cheomseongdae. The shows promise to be a beautiful fusion of music, dance, and the stunning natural backdrop of Gyeongju.
With all performances being free of charge, 'Seorabeol Pungnyu' is set to offer a cultural and emotional experience that goes beyond typical sightseeing. For detailed information, visitors can check the official website of the Foundation for the Promotion of Traditional Performing Arts at www.kotpa.org.
About the Foundation for the Promotion of Traditional Performing Arts (KOTPA) KOTPA was established to promote traditional arts and expand cultural opportunities for the public. Starting in 2007 as the Gugak Cultural Foundation, it changed its name in 2009 to its current one. The foundation is dedicated to popularizing traditional arts, developing high-quality content, nurturing emerging artists, and fostering international exchanges.
Media Contact: Hyeju Park, Deputy Director Foundation for the Promotion of Traditional Performing Arts 02-580-3282
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