Sharjah Showcases Arab Culture and Strengthens Cultural Ties at Seoul International Book Fair

The exhibition featured historical papers and maps that led viewers on a tour of the rich history and diverse Arab culture

on Jun 23, 2023

Sharjah Showcases Arab Culture and Strengthens Cultural Ties at Seoul International Book Fair | Frontlist

A rare fusion of cultures was on display at the 65th Seoul International Book Fair, hosted at the COEX Exhibition Centre in Seoul. Sharjah, the event's Guest of Honour, demonstrated the richness of Arab culture and used the opportunity to promote closer ties between Arab and Korean cultural traditions.

The exhibition featured historical papers and maps that led viewers on a tour of the rich history and diverse Arab culture. There were seminars, book displays, panel discussions, art exhibitions, and other literary activities scheduled for the five days of the festival, which took place from June 14 to June 18.

The guests showed great interest in the books that were displayed and translated into Korean. 'One Room Is Not Enough' by Sultan Al Amini and 'Thawat' by Dr. Zainab Al Yassi both had a lot of popularity there. The display of maps from the 16th and 17th centuries piqued tourists' curiosity. The crowd was enthralled by a global map from 1547 called the Ottoman Empire Map.

The movie "Khorfakkan's Resistance against the Portuguese Invasion of September 1507" was screened at a nearby cinema in conjunction with the book fair. The movie is adapted from Sheikh Sultan's novel of the same name.

Sharjah's presence as a Guest of Honour at the worldwide event was "Sharjah's participation as a resounding testament to the enduring power of literature and culture," said Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairman of Sharjah's Department of Government Relations and leader of Sharjah's delegation.

Sharjah's participation in the exhibition emphasized the results of its cultural journey, which embodies the vision of [Sheikh Sultan], through participating in conversations with the people of South Korea.

The major goals of the event were to learn more about Emirati culture and to educate people about their historical, artistic, and literary accomplishments. The event served as a fantastic opportunity for the UAE to deepen its international ties and was viewed as a fresh start for ties between South Korea and the UAE.

Korean peers interacted with Arab authors, poets, and painters. Koreans participated in traditional dances and became fully immersed in Arab culture. Some Korean women dressed up in the traditional garb of the United Arab Emirates.