ICHCAP

Seoul, May 15 (Monday) – The International Information and Networking Centre for Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Asia-Pacific Region (ICHCAP), in collaboration with three institutions, successfully co-hosted the 2023 International Forum on Central Asian Traditional New Year Celebrations at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies Seoul Campus. The event, held on May 15, aimed to explore the similarities and differences in traditional New Year celebrations in Central Asia while promoting future exchanges and cooperation.

ICHCAP has been diligently working to assess the current status of cultural heritage in Central Asia and establish plans for organic exchange and cooperation. The forum provided a platform to identify the commonalities of Central Asian traditional New Year celebrations, particularly focusing on Nauryz, and devise measures for fostering future exchange and cooperation. By organizing the event in conjunction with the KF Central Asia Spring Festival, the forum aimed to foster consensus-building between the regions and enhance mutual awareness through expanded cultural exchange and cooperation between Korea and the Central Asian countries.

The International Forum on Central Asian Traditional New Year Celebrations was held in collaboration with the KF Korea-Central Asia Cooperation Forum Secretariat, the Institute of Central Asian Studies at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies (HUFS), and the HK+ National Strategies Research Project Agency. Approximately 30 participants, including presenters from the four Central Asian countries, attended the event, which featured keynote lectures, country-specific presentations, and comprehensive discussions. The Forum’s overarching theme revolved around “The cultural sharing and modern meaning of the traditional New Year’s celebration”, with each country offering insights and perspectives through their presentations.

Prior to the Forum, attendees had the opportunity to visit the KF “2023 Central Asia Spring Festival” held at Cheonggye Plaza in Seoul. Over the course of two days, from May 13 to 14, participants enjoyed engaging in various cultural programs. This pre-event celebration not only set the stage for the Forum but also provided a vibrant and immersive experience for all attendees.

Prior to the Forum, attendees had the opportunity to visit the KF “2023 Central Asia Spring Festival” held at Cheonggye Plaza in Seoul. Over the course of two days, from May 13 to 14, participants enjoyed engaging in various cultural programs. This pre-event celebration not only set the stage for the Forum but also provided a vibrant and immersive experience for all attendees.