Korean Culture Festival Draws Hundreds at KR University Smart Center.
The Korean Culture Festival brought together hundreds of spectators over the weekend at the Smart Center of Baitursynuly University (KR University).
The event was organized by the King Sejong Institute at Baitursynuly University. This institute offers free Korean language classes and cultural programs, taught by educators from South Korea. The institute was established in partnership with Dong-Eui University (South Korea), a partner of KR University.
The festival was held in an interactive format, which clearly resonated with the people of Kostanay, judging by the large number of participants.
A Step Closer to Traditions
Visitors were welcomed by activists from the local Korean ethnocultural association and invited to play traditional South Korean games, which have gained popularity following the release of the hit series Squid Game. Free Korean-language books were also available for attendees.
K-Pop Dance Battle
Eight youth groups from Kostanay lit up the dance floor with high-energy K-Pop performances. The audience cheered loudly for each team, making it a tough decision for the judges. In the end, the youth group Fancy emerged victorious.
K-Spice Challenge
Who could handle the spiciest ramen? Many daring participants answered the call. Three rounds, three portions, three levels of spiciness—each ramen had to be finished within 4 minutes. All finalists received consolation prizes, but only Sanzhar Gabduali finished the spiciest bowl and claimed the title of winner.
Try on a Hanbok
Kostanay residents had the opportunity to try on elegant traditional Korean costumes. So many people participated that the fittings continued even after the festival ended.
Additionally, there was an intellectual quiz on Korean facts, a wealth of colorful gifts, engaging conversations, new acquaintances, and plenty of inspiring ideas.
Congratulations to the King Sejong Institute on hosting the first—and highly successful—Korean Culture Festival in Kostanay!
