The Korean Cultural Centre in Cairo launched its inaugural “Ahlan Korea” monthly programme on Tuesday, beginning a year-long initiative to strengthen cultural ties between South Korea and Egypt through regional showcases.
The first edition of the programme focused on the coastal city of Gangneung, an Olympic host city located on Korea’s East Sea. The event, held at the centre’s Dokki headquarters, presented the city’s visual and cultural identity, blending its historical heritage with contemporary lifestyle elements for an Egyptian audience.
Oh Sung-ho, Director of the Korean Cultural Centre, said the initiative reflects the growing depth of relations and cooperation between South Korea and Egypt. He noted that the centre is preparing a series of diverse programmes in literature and the arts to foster dialogue and mutual understanding between the two nations.
Participants were provided with a virtual tour of Gangneung’s landmarks and folk legends, including intangible cultural heritage elements inscribed on the UNESCO lists. The city is widely recognised for hosting ice sports competitions during the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympics.
The event included interactive activities such as a cultural quiz, a guided tour of traditional Korean artefacts, and an opportunity for visitors to wear the “Hanbok,” Korea’s traditional costume. The programme concluded with a tasting session featuring local cuisine from the Gangneung region.
“Ahlan Korea” is scheduled to continue as a monthly series throughout 2026 in cooperation with the Korean Tourism Organisation. Each subsequent edition will highlight a different Korean city to provide a comprehensive view of the country’s arts, traditions, and landmarks.
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