Immerse Yourself in Digitally Reimagined Korean Art: Celebrating 75 Years of Friendship with the Philippines

The National Museum of Korea is presenting an exhibition titled "Endless Landscape: Digitally Reimagined Korean Art" at the Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines. The exhibition, running from January 19 to June 29, 2024, showcases immersive digital videos featuring reinterpretations of traditional Korean paintings. This initiative is part of the National Museum of Korea's Overseas Korean Galleries Support Program, aiming to expand the reach of Korean culture globally.

Endless Landscape is a beautiful way to get to know Korean culture, history, and art

The Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines

Exhibition Poster

The exhibition uses new digital technologies to present four video works: 

Endless Mountains and Rivers

The first video work, titled "Endless Mountains and Rivers: A Prosperous World Unfolds in Nature," is based on the masterpiece "Endless Mountains and Rivers" by Yi Inmun, a royal court painter from the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1897). This video offers a vivid portrayal of people living harmoniously with nature, capturing a vibrant coexistence that symbolizes a prosperous world. The imagery reflects the utopian vision that people in the late Joseon Dynasty aspired to achieve.

Royal Processions with the People

The second video, named "Royal Processions with the People," draws inspiration from the official uigwe (royal protocols) records detailing ceremonies of the Joseon royal court. This video transports viewers into a world of grand royal rituals, specifically focusing on the processions to Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon led by King Jeongjo (r. 1776-1800), the 22nd King of the Joseon Dynasty. King Jeongjo, recognizable to international audiences through the Korean historical drama "The Red Sleeve," is a central figure in the immersive experience crafted from historical records and paintings.

Pillars of Divinity, Chongseok Rocks

The third video work, titled "Pillars of Divinity, Chongseok Rocks," visually captures the breathtaking scenery of Chongseok Rocks in Tongcheon, Gangwondo Province, a famous location in the Geumgangsan Mountain area. This video is inspired by the painting "Scenic View of Chongseok Rocks" created by the painter and calligrapher Kim Gyujin (1868-1933). Commissioned by Emperor Sunjong, the second ruler of the Korean Empire (1897-1910), the painting originally adorned Heejeongdang Hall at Changdeokgung Palace. The immersive video transforms this spectacular view of hexagonal rock pillars, seemingly sculpted by divine hands, into a lifelike experience for visitors.

Peonies in Bloom

The fourth video work, titled "Peonies in Bloom," takes inspiration from a two-panel painting of peony flowers housed in the National Museum of Korea collection. Originating from the Joseon Dynasty, this artwork was initially installed in a palace building. Peonies, celebrated as the "king of flowers" for their splendid and elegant appearance, have historically symbolized wealth and abundance and served as a significant motif in royal rites and architecture. The video immerses visitors in a lavish garden showcasing vibrant red and white peony blossoms in full bloom, offering a rich and visually captivating experience.

These works offer a unique intersection of past cultural heritage and modern digital technology, providing viewers with a novel and engaging experience.

Given the absence of Korean galleries or museums in the Philippines, the exhibition employs a digital approach to overcome constraints and reach a broader audience. This effort aligns with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and the Philippines, celebrating the enduring friendship between the two countries.

To enhance the exhibition's impact, the Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines will organize monthly house concerts featuring Filipino artists in collaboration with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts of the Philippines. This partnership aims to strengthen cultural exchanges and cooperation between the two nations.

Gayageum Artist Ju Bora performs at the Opening Ceremony

Bayanihan Dance Company performs at the Opening Ceremony

Live concert schedule:

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Photos During the Launch

(L-R) Kim Myeongjin, Korean Cultural Center Director, Oscar Casaysay, National Commission for Culture and the Arts Executive Director, Lee Sang-hwa, Ambassador of Korea to the Philippines, Kim Dohyung, National Museum of Korea Executive Director of the Education & Cultural Bureau and Jeong Myounghee , National Museum of Korea Exhibition Division Head

Ambassador Lee Sang-hwa

We had a sneak peek of this new digital art exhibition, met the Ambassador of Korea to the Philippines

The immersive digital videos featured in the exhibition are based on traditional Korean paintings, offering a vibrant and immersive experience for visitors. The National Museum of Korea plans to continue supporting overseas Korean galleries and exhibitions, promoting a deeper understanding of Korean culture on a global scale.

After the exhibit, I was able to go around KCC and enjoy some of its offerings to the public. Get to know more about modern and traditional Korea in this free and interactive cultural center.

Library featuring Korean books, magazines, DVDs, etc.

A museum featuring Korean traditional costumes, language, food, etc.

They also have classrooms for their free language, cooking, and other Korean classes (by registration)

Photo by the cute Hangul chairs, and availed the photo booth printout

Visit the Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines

Address: 59 Bayani Rd, Taguig, 1630 Metro Manila

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm, Saturday 10am to 4pm

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KoreanCulturalCenterPH/

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kccphil

Digital Exhibit Schedule: 

January 19 - June 29, 2024, 9AM - 4PM

NO registration and NO entrance fee

For your inquiries, please call KCC at 8555-1711, or email info@koreanculture.ph