Korean New Year Celebrations

17 February, 2022

In collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Korea and the Korean Cultural Centre, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi celebrated the Korean New Year on campus through hosting various cultural activities.

The event is part of the university’s efforts in enriching students’ experiences by celebrating different cultures and embracing inclusion and diversity. The event was attended by HE Lee Seok-gu, ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the UAE, and his wife and delegates from the Embassy of the Republic of Korea and the Korean Cultural Centre as well as students, academics and staff.

HE Lee Seok-gu was welcomed by Prof Silvia Serrano, Vice-Chancellor Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi that gave his excellency and the Korean delegation a campus tour and gave a word about the significance of the event.

The event started with the national anthems of the Republic of Korea, the UAE and France.

HE Lee Seok-gu, ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the UAE, commented “We are pleased to have the opportunity to introduce Korean culture at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, which has built a global reputation on the philosophical value of cultural diversity. We will try our best to have continuous cooperation with Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi to provide opportunities to enjoy Korean traditional culture as well as K-pop, dramas, and movies in the future that shined on the world stages.”

Prof Silvia Serrano, Vice-Chancellor Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi commented “We are here today not only to celebrate one of the most important Korean holidays, the Korean new year, but to highlight the importance of Korea’s vibrant cultural legacy, that includes music, dance, and cuisine. As an international university with a diverse student population of more than 60 nationalities, we are keen on offering students’ cross-cultural experiences which also aligns with Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi’s motto “a bridge between civilizations”.

The event was a great success and guests and students enjoyed the contemporary Korean dance performances along with other various activities that reflected the Korean traditions such as the Korean games, food and Korean products booths.