The Seoul International Book Fair, which concluded on June 30th, saw a resounding success for Saudi Arabia’s involvement as the Guest of Honor. The Saudi pavilion, organized by the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission, stood out as the most visited attraction during the five-day event, from June 26th to 30th.
The pavilion presented a comprehensive cultural experience, showcasing the country’s vibrant heritage, arts, and culture to the Korean audience. It was a collaborative effort, bringing together various Saudi cultural institutions such as the Fashion Commission, Heritage Commission, Culinary Arts Commission, King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language, King Abdulaziz Public Library, King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives, Publishing Association, King Fahd National Library, and the Ministry of Investment.
A highlight of the Saudi pavilion was the cultural program, which included 13 panel discussions featuring 24 speakers. These discussions delved into the intricacies of Saudi tradition and its impact on Korean culture, covering a wide range of topics including arts, aesthetics, history of civilizations, literature, trade, and cultural exchange between the two countries.
Beyond the insightful discussions, the Saudi pavilion offered a plethora of engaging activities and displays. Visitors were treated to a Saudi dinner night, where they could savor traditional dishes from across the country. Live demonstrations of Arabic calligraphy, carving, and traditional crafts further enriched the atmosphere. The pavilion also showcased rare books, documents, artifacts found in the Kingdom, traditional attire, and musical instruments used in Saudi music.
The success of the Saudi pavilion at the Seoul International Book Fair underscores the importance of cultural exchange and its role in fostering understanding and appreciation between nations.
