Bright traditional costumes, energetic dances with elements of acrobatics, rhythmic music — all of these could see the residents and guests of Nur-Sultan last weekend at a concert of Korean traditional art "Nong-ak" in the capital’s amphitheatre.
Nong-ak Korean traditional art performance was organized by the Korean Cultural Center of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea with with the cooperation of Mayor’s Office of Nur-Sultan and Nong-ak Art Conservation Association of Pyeongtaek in honor of the establishment of the 10th anniversary of the strategic partnership between the Republic of Korea and the Republic of Kazakhstan.
"Nong-ak is a Korean traditional art that dates back centuries. Nong-ak music was performed during the time of suffering to raise the spirits of rural residents. Dancing, singing, playing musical instruments and acrobatic performances are essential elements of traditional nong-ak art.
Opening the event, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea in Kazakhstan Mr. Kim Daesik expressed his hope that Kazakhstanis will show more interest in Korean culture and will be able to have a huge impact on bilateral relations between the two countries in the future.
"Our people have similarities in both culture and languages. The Kazakh people developed nomadic culture, and Koreans adhered to a settled way of life, were engaged in agriculture. I hope this performance will help our friends understand the choreography and music of the Korean people," the Ambassador said.
Artists from Pyeongtaek opened the performance with the composition "Samdo Solchango". Samdo Solchango is a kind of nong-ak performed on the drum of Chango, samdo means three provinces of Korea - Gyeonggido, Jeollado, and Gyeongsangdo.
The piece of art "samulnori", which was performed on small and large gongs and drums, which together made up a harmonious sound and interesting presentation did not leave anyone indifferent.
The audience was also shown the traditional dance procession "punkut", in which the artists performed elements of acrobatics to the accompaniment of Korean traditional music. On the heads of nong-ak masters were sanmo hats with long white ribbons, which made the circles in the air.
The performers juggled plates on canes and gave the audience the opportunity to take part in the performance.
The open-air celebration organized by the Korean Cultural Center gave the capital's residents not only an unforgettable experience, but also an opportunity to touch Korean art.
Dana Tugambekova
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