A two-day Korean Traditional Culture Workshop was held at the Faculty of Law (FOL) Building from 24 to 25 May 2025, culminating in a vibrant showcase of Korean cultural heritage. Organised by the King Sejong Institute (KSI) MMU Melaka, the event brought together eight representatives from the Korean Research Institute of Traditional Performance, namely Mr. Song Ju Kwang, Ms. Kwon Jiyoung, Ms. Kim Eun Sook, Mr. Ahn Jinhun, Ms. Choi Dongsuk, Mr. Kim Donghyun, Mr. Kim Wan Seong, and Ms. Kang Junghyo.
Around 150 people attended both days of the Traditional Culture Workshop, including MMU students, KSI students, and their families and friends. Throughout the event, participants engaged in crafting traditional Korean art pieces, including tal (masks), mini sotdae (wooden poles), mini jangseung (village guardian totems), jangmyeongru (bracelets), and buchae (folding fans). In addition, traditional game booths were set up, allowing participants to enjoy Yutnori (a traditional board game), Gonggi (similar to jacks), and Jaegichagi (a Korean-style shuttlecock kicking game). Attendees also had the opportunity to sample authentic Korean street food such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and eomuk (fish cake skewers) on the first day.
The second day featured a grand finale with live performances by renowned artists from the Korean Research Institute of Traditional Performance, alongside MMU students and local participants. The opening ceremony was graced by Prof. Dr. Wong Eng Kiong, Vice President of Student Experience and Entrepreneurship Development.
Traditional performances included Gilnori (street parade), Ipchum (entrance dance), Samulnori (a percussion ensemble), Taepyeongmu (a royal court dance), and Jindobuknori (a drumming performance). MMU students performed Samulnori and Bongsan Talchum, a satirical mask dance and drum performance, while artist Ahn Jinhun captivated the audience with lyrical folk songs known as Gyeonggi Minyo.
The closing ceremony was graced by Dr. Ong Sue Lyn, Director of KSI MMU Melaka and LIFE. The event successfully promoted deeper appreciation and engagement with Korean culture among the MMU community and beyond.
