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The 19th Arab Cultural Festival

Seoul Gwangju Gyeongju

Seoul

Welcome to the 19th Arab Cultural Festival in Seoul, where the radiance of Arabia and the vibrance of Korea come together.

To celebrate the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and Lebanon, Lebanon’s Hayakel Baalbeck Dance Troupe comes to Korea for a special performance with the Jindo National Gugak Center. Experience a vibrant celebration where feet meet the beat.

The Jindo National Gugak Center

Opened in 2004 as a branch of the National Gugak Center under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Jindo National Gugak Center carries on Korea’s rich musical heritage spanning more than 1,400 years. Located on Jindo Island in southern Korea, known as the “Treasure Island” for its breathtaking natural beauty, the Center has long served as a bridge for cultural exchange between Korea and the Arab world. In partnership with the Korea-Arab Society, the Center has travelled throughout many Arab countries to share the beauty and spirit of traditional Korean culture.

At this Festival in Seoul, the Center presents “Samdo Seoljanggu” (drum ensemble), “Buchaechum” (Fan Dance), and “Daedongnori,” performances that have captivated audiences across the Arab world with their vibrant energy and artistry. Experience the exhilarating beauty of Korean traditional performing arts, brought to life through powerful rhythms, dynamic movements, and a joyful harmony of energy and vitality.

Hayakel Baalbeck

From Lebanon, the Land of the Cedars, where the blue breeze of the Mediterranean lingers, comes the Hayakel Baalbeck Dance Troupe. Named after Baalbeck, a Lebanese city renowned for its remarkably well-preserved Roman temples, the troupe brings to Korea the passion and energy of Dabke, along with the vibrant rhythms of traditional music.

Dabke is a traditional Arab folk dance widely performed in Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, and Syria. Known for its powerful footwork, lively rhythms, and dynamic group movements, Dabke brings many dancers together in perfect harmony. An essential part of celebrations such as festivals and weddings, it embodies the strong sense of community and vibrant spirit of life at the heart of Arab culture. The troupe performed for Pope Leo XIV at Lebanon’s Presidential Palace during his 2025 visit to Lebanon, dancing Dabke despite the pouring rain. Stepping and spinning with passion and precision, they earned praise worldwide. Take a brief trip to the unfamiliar yet spectacular Arab world!

Date & Time

5 September 2026 (Saturday), 15:00–16:30

Venue

Yeakdang, National Gugak Center

Location
Free Admission Reservation required via the National Gugak Center website (www.gugak.go.kr)
Inquiries: festival@korea-arab.org
Free Performance

The Jindo National Gugak Center

Hayakel Baalbeck

Co-hosted by
한국아랍소사이어티 국립남도국악원
Sponsored by
외교부 국립국악원
Event info After attending the Arab Cultural Festival, post a review on your personal social media account by September 19, 2026, with at least three photos, including a photo of your event ticket and photos taken at the event, and at least 100 words in English or 200 characters in Korean. Include all required hashtags. One winner will be selected to receive one round-trip ticket between Seoul and Abu Dhabi and two admission tickets to Zayed National Museum. (#한국_아랍소사이어티 #제19회아랍문화제 #서울호비 #korea_arab_society #arabculturalfestival #seoulhobbi)
Please note 1. Your account must remain public throughout the event period. Private accounts are not eligible.
2. All requirements must be met, and entries will be judged primarily on quality.

Directions

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