Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines held its 2-day seminar ‘Let’s Talk: Tastes and Lessons on K-Life’ last April 21-22, 2022.
This marks its first face-to-face seminar after the pandemic.
In addition, this was also the first time that the new KCC building open its doors to all Filipinos who would want to experience the K-life here in the Philippines!
Yours truly got the chance to visit and attend the said seminar held in KCC last week.
The KCC Building
It is a 5-story building situated at 59 Bayanihan Rd. in Fort Bonifacio Taguig City. Just like the previous KCC buildings, it also consists of a museum, classrooms, library, dance studio, kitchen for the cooking class, and the newest place which is the multi-purpose hall.
As of writing the library is not yet open to the public. Stay tuned to KCC’s Facebook page for more updates!
The K-life experience
As part of the program, we got to take a look at the whole building which was led by the friendly KCC staff.
A Taste of Korean Gastronomic Experience
In the first activity, we’ve got to learn to cook the two famous Korean dish which is Bulgogi and Jeon.
The class was headed by Chef Lily Min, the author of ‘The K-drama cookbook.’
I must admit, cooking is not really my thing. However, what I love about this cooking session is that I have gained new friends!
Thank you so much KCC for this fun experience!
Re-exploring Highlights of K-Life, Migration, Human Development, and Homecoming
On top of the gastronomic experience, we then shifted to a meaningful session/ talk about the life of a Filipino student in Korea.
Currently, Dr. Ancho is practicing his profession at the University of the Philippines in Los Banos as a Professor.
It was fun and interesting to hear his story and how he endured 9 years of his life in South Korea in pursuit of his dreams.
In addition, this was an instant reunion for Dr. Ancho and me personally as we both attended the same university in South Korea during the school year 2012-2013.
As the old Filipino song goes, Hinahanap-hanap kita Manila~ Ang ingay mong kay sarap sa tenga~ and yes we are back here in Manila but still connected with our K-lives.
Dr. Ancho or “Kuya Iners” is a good friend, Kuya, ChiMaek plus noraebang buddy, and a sunbaenim too. It’s been ages since the last time we saw each other. Thank you KCC for reuniting us, the Jeonju peeps.
Dancing to the beat of K-Life Traditions through Music
For the last part, we had a traditional dance class with Teacher Jo Jang Eun.
Teacher Jo often performs at the Korean x Philippines affairs in the country together with KCC performance team-NARA
Buchaechum or Korean fan dance started in 1954 and normally being performed by female dancers.
The term ‘Buchaechum’ is derived from two Korean terms. ‘Buchae’ is Korean for ‘fan,’ and ‘chum’ is Korean for ‘dancing.’ Kim Baek-Bong, a great Korean dancer, created this lovely dance.
Moreover, she drew inspiration for her unique Korean fan dance from existing Korean dance forms such as shamanic ritual dances and religious dance styles.
Punghwa, Light of ASEAN
In 2011, the Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines opened its doors, and since then, both nations’ cultural knowledge has been consistently exchanged.
During these years, the Center also discovered a connection between Korea and the Philippines. One example is their love of ‘light culture,’ a symbol of hope and a custom of wishing into the flashing light in the dark sky.
Punghwa, the light of ASEAN is giving us the message of hope and bravery. Finding the silver lining in the most difficult times of our lives.
I can say that this was one of my faves during my 1-day visit to KCC. It was so magical and it will give you all the Korean historical drama feels.
Punghwa, Light of ASEAN will be open to the public until May 31, 2022, in the Korean Cultural Center. Make sure to bring your friends or loved ones and experience Korea to the next level.
To experience this wonderful journey at KCC do not forget to follow their social media accounts for the latest announcements and available classes.
Follow them here: Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook
Thank you so much for your generosity, Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines!