JEDDAH: The South Korean General Consulate recently staged a two-day cultural event in Jeddah. The Korea Festival, held at the city’s Korean International School, was aimed at introducing South Korean culture to Jeddawis. Among the activities taking place were a calligraphy workshop, cooking and handicraft sessions, a traditional outfits zone, a photo booth, karaoke, an exhibition of artifacts, and food stalls. Visitors to the calligraphy workshop were shown how to write in different Korean styles, while those attending the handicraft section could learn the art of making paper bags and coloring a paper fan. Cooking sessions gave an insight into South Korean cuisine including bibimbap, a dish consisting of rice, vegetables, meat, and fried egg, and kimchi, a pickle-like fermented cabbage served as a side. South Korean street food such as sodduk and seasoned chicken was on sale at the food stalls. In the karaoke zone people danced, and sang their favorite K-pop tunes, while some of the event organizers took turns singing traditional Korean songs. A display of artifacts included a crown, traditional outfits, paintings, weapons, vases, jewelry boxes, and utensils. In a welcome speech, Consul General Byoung Jin Han launched a Korean speech contest with 102 participants. He said: “I would like to thank everyone here for attending the festival and for your love and interest in South Korean culture. Although there are things related to the Korean culture that are missing in this event, I do hope everyone has a good time.” The diplomat noted that the best way to get to know and understand South Korean culture was by visiting the country. “But I do still tell my Saudi friends not to go there because I’m afraid that they might fall in love with Korea and decide to live there,” he added. Jin Han gave special mention to people learning to speak Korean. He said: “To learn a foreign language takes a lot of courage and love, and by learning Korean, you’re showing your love for the language.” Meanwhile, the speech contest winner received a tablet, with the second-placed contender getting a smartwatch, and the third earbuds, while all participants were given gifts. Both days of the festival ended with a talent show involving mainly singing and dance acts.