140 Saudi and Korean Performers Shine in Performing Arts

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – November 26, 2023

The Royal Institute of Traditional Arts presented the "Encounter - Saudi Korean Arts" show today. It is the first-of-its-kind performance in the Kingdom, held at Princess Nourah University's Red Hall in Riyadh. This unique experience unfolded over three consecutive days, starting over three days during the period Nov. 26 to 28, 2023.

This Art show was in collaboration with Korea National University of Arts, with the participation of the Theater and Performing Arts Commission. It offers a remarkable opportunity for attendees to explore the diversity of Saudi and Korean arts. The show features a diverse range of integrated theatrical and performance displays, showcasing 5 Saudi and 5 Korean performing arts. The performance concludes with an integrated art piece that combines steps and rhythms inspired by both cultures. Additionally, there is an accompanying art exhibition featuring traditional arts in various fields such as metals, pottery, woodwork, and hand embroidery, telling the story of the artistic encounter that transcends borders.

Visitors to the Encounter event witnessed 140 performers from Saudi Arabia and South Korea, including Saudi and Korean artists in the theatrical performance that reflects the Kingdom's cultural diversity. Furthermore, the show is considered as an integrated artistic experience, as the Saudi performance display will reflect the cultural diversity of the Kingdom which includes Al-Samari, Al-Daha, Al-Liwa, Al-Khatwa, and Al-Khabiti. 

This luxurious cultural event brings together Saudi and Korean creativity, offering a unique journey that blends heritage and modernity in an exceptional artistic experience. The show kicks off at 8:30 PM, with the presence of prominent leaders in the cultural sector showing their full support for this pioneering initiative.

Dr. Suzan Al Yahya, the CEO of the Royal Institute, emphasized, "The Encounter show contributes to enhancing artistic movement and global cultural exchange in the Kingdom. It creates a meeting point for traditional arts from different countries on both the local and global levels, raising awareness, promoting, and introducing traditional arts locally and internationally. We affirm our support and encouragement for efforts aimed at preserving them."

The Institute is a leading destination that highlights Saudi national identity and enriches traditional Saudi arts. It represents the culture of the Kingdom by enhancing the rich and unique cultural heritage of traditional arts and related artworks, preserving their authenticity, supporting national talents and practitioners, and encouraging those interested in learning, mastering, and developing these arts.

Korea National University of Arts, located in Seoul, South Korea, was established by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism in 1993 as a national university with the aim of nurturing artists. It comprises 26 departments in six schools: Music, Drama, Cinema, Television and Multimedia, Performing Arts, Visual Arts, and Traditional Korean Arts.