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Ministry of Culture, Community & Youth
Speeches

Celebrating the relationship between Korea and Singapore

Sectors

Arts & Heritage

25 October 2013

Speech by Mr Sam Tan, Senior Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth at the 6th Korea Festival (Vizit Korea) 2013

His Excellency Suh Chung-ha, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Singapore 
Mr. Shaun Seow, CEO of MediaCorp 
Distinguished guests, 
Ladies and gentlemen 

  1. I am delighted to be here with you this evening for the Opening Ceremony of the Korean Festival 2013, Vizit Korea. I would like to congratulate the organisers of this event - the Embassy of the Republic of Korea and MediaCorp VizPro - on this occasion as it marks the successful launch of the 6th edition of the Korean Festival in Singapore. 

  2. Over the last decade or so, the Hallyu (Ha-Ryu) Wave has created immense interest in Korean culture and entertainment in Singapore and in many other parts of the world. Today, it is not difficult to find authentic Korean food and many Korean products in Singapore. Even in our homes, Korean dramas, films and music have become a part of our cultural diet! 

  3. This has no doubt led to a greater understanding among Singaporeans of the Korean way of life, and is part of the reason why a growing number of Singaporeans are now choosing to travel to Korea for holidays, work or study. 

  4. Singapore has also made big strides in creating greater awareness of our culture in Korea. For instance, a Peranakan exhibition was held at the National Museum of Korea earlier this year and it was very well received by Koreans. In fact, several well-known Singaporean brands such as Ya Kun and Bee Cheng Hiang, featuring Singapore's famous kaya toast and “bakkwa” or roasted meat, are also gaining popularity in Korea. 

  5. I am sure that this two-way flow of culture has helped to build a shared understanding and appreciation amongst the people of the two nations. This annual Korean Festival is yet another great opportunity to further boost cultural exchanges and mutual understanding between Singapore and Korea. As Ambassador Suh mentioned earlier in his speech, there are many exciting K-pop performances, movie screenings and food tasting opportunities in this year's Korean festival for members of the public to participate in. I hope all of you will enjoy the numerous events and activities that have been lined up in the coming days. 

  6. Congratulations once again on the successful launch of this year's Korean Festival 2013 Vizit Korea! Thank you.