Organized by the Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines , the festival was held on May 4 and 5 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall. Performers were Jannabi, Filipino artist Young Cocoa; NARA ; and the Centro Escolar University Folk Dance Troupe.
In his speech, Ambassador Lee said, This marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties and a long, enduring friendship between Korea and the Philippines. As we commemorate this milestone, it must be remembered what we are celebrating is not merely a history of relations but a friendship that has grown over the years. We are here to celebrate the exchanges of peoples and cultures between our two countries that have mutually enriched the lives of both our peoples.
“This year's Korea Festival, themed ‘K-Culture Next Door,’ highlights such close connection between Korea and the Filipinos. The term “Next Door” suggests that Korea and its culture is not distant or foreign but rather, a close, neighborly part of the local experience,” he said.