Seoul: France will initiate a yearlong series of cultural exchange events throughout South Korea, commemorating the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, the French Embassy in Seoul announced.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the events will focus on "creativity, opportunity and solidarity," featuring approximately 100 activities across music, visual arts, literature, film, drama, and performing arts in 20 cities nationwide. French Ambassador Philippe Bertoux stated that the program aims to strengthen the friendly relations between France and South Korea in various domains, including political, economic, cultural, security, educational, and human exchange.
The festivities will commence with a concert by the Bucheon Philharmonic Orchestra, led by principal French conductor Adrien Perruchon, at Bucheon Arts Center. Rising French pianist Arielle Beck will perform as a soloist with the orchestra. Major events are planned for June to coincide with the anniversary of the Treaty of Friendship, Commerce and Navigation, signed 140 years ago between the two countries.
Early June will witness the opening of the Centre Pompidou Hanwha Seoul at the 63 Building in Yeouido, showcasing an exhibition based on the Centre Pompidou's modern and contemporary art collection from Paris. The main ceremony commemorating the anniversary will occur on June 4 at Deoksu Palace, featuring performances by artists like Soprano Sumi Jo.
France is set to be the guest of honor at the Seoul International Book Fair 2026 and will be highlighted at seven international film festivals in cities such as Busan, Bucheon, Jeju, and Seoul, as well as two music festivals in Cheorwon and Gapyeong. October will see the Avignon Festival make its Asian debut as part of the Seoul Performing Arts Festival, with Korean as its official guest language.
The yearlong cultural festivities will conclude with a closing performance in Busan in December, with details to be announced later. The embassy announced that South Korean actor Jun Ji-hyun and Felix from K-pop group Stray Kids will serve as honorary ambassadors for the anniversary program, symbolizing the vibrant and international nature of contemporary Korean culture.