▲ The South Korean Embassy in France holds a press conference in Paris, in this file photo from Nov. 18, 2025, to announce various cultural events celebrating the 140th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries. (Yonhap)
▲ French Ambassador to South Korea Philippe Bertoux (R) speaks during a press conference at the ambassador's residence in Seoul, in this file photo from Nov. 11, 2025, to introduce programs for the 140th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries in this photo provided by the embassy. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

S Korea-France-anniv events

S. Korea to stage yearlong cultural events in France for 140th anniv. of ties

By Shim Sun-ah

SEOUL, Feb. 10 (Yonhap) -- South Korea will stage a yearlong series of cultural exchange events across France to mark the 140th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries, the culture ministry said Tuesday.

Under the theme of "creativity, opportunity and solidarity," the program will feature exhibitions, performances and various other events aimed at showcasing the past, present and future of the Korean culture, according to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.

In the visual arts sector, major French cultural institutions will host exhibitions by leading Korean artists. The "Colors of Korea" modern and digital art exhibition has been running since October at the Korean Cultural Center in France. From April to June, the Fondation Fiminco will present a solo exhibition by Korean media artist Kang Yi-yun and a group show of young artists.

The National Museum of Asian Arts - Guimet in Paris will hold a series of high-profile exhibitions showcasing the Korean culture, including "The Secret of Korean Beauty: From Joseon to K-Beauty" (March–July), "Silla: Gold and Sacredness" (May–August) and "Illusion of Knowledge: The Trompe-loeil Art of Korean Painting" (September 2026–January 2027).

Performing arts exchanges are also planned.

On May 23, various Korean cultural performances will be held at major museums and galleries across Paris to coincide with the European Night of Museums. In July, the Avignon Festival will feature Korean as its official guest language, presenting leading theater plays and dance works, as well as literary and culinary side events.

In October, the Chatelet Theater will host a B-boying competition between Korean and French street dance crews.

In the content sector, Korea will be the guest country at the 2026 Series Mania, an annual international festival dedicated to TV series, in March and run a promotion booth for Korean films at the Cannes Film Market in May. Other events include the "Concept Korea" fashion showcase during Paris Fashion Week in March and September, a Korea–France tourism B2B event in June, and a bilateral publishing exchange program throughout the year.

"The anniversary events will offer a meaningful opportunity for both peoples to deepen mutual understanding and friendship," a ministry official said. "We hope it can be a chance to share the appeal of K-culture more widely in France and further strengthen cultural ties between the two nations."

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