Haegeum melodies sweep University of Cologne at Arirang Echo
Arirang Echo Cologne brings haegeum, Hanbok, Taekwondo and Korean arts to the University of Cologne, with twice-yearly festivals planned.
A Comprehensive K-Culture Festival at the University of Cologne
The 'Arirang Echo Cologne' festival, encompassing both traditional and modern Korean culture, was held on the campus of the University of Cologne, a cultural hub in western Germany. Despite the sweltering heat exceeding 35 degrees Celsius, local citizens continued to participate enthusiastically.
This festival featured a diverse lineup of programs, centered around haegeum performances and including Hanryangmu, Gayageum Sanjo, K-pop dance, Korean picture book readings, Miryang Geommu, and Taekwondo demonstrations. On-site, crowds gathered at the Hanbok experience and Hangeul calligraphy booths, showing great interest in traditional Korean design.
Haegeum Ensemble K-YUL Performs for Local Citizens
K-YUL, a haegeum ensemble composed of German members, took the stage to convey Korean sentiments. Rainer Schuele, regional chairman of the German Association who visited Korea in 1982, shared the atmosphere of the event by mentioning Korean children's songs such as 'San-tokki Tokki-ya' and 'Nari Nari Gaenari.'
German citizens of various ages participated in the event. Christina Netz, a University of Cologne student and volunteer at the haegeum booth, reported high interest from locals regarding haegeum performances. Local figures also attended, including Amira Zewat, who is familiar with Korean culture, and Günel Elanze, a Green Party member who first encountered Korea through Korean dramas.
Planned as a Regular Event Every Summer and Winter
The event was co-hosted by Dr. Noh Yu-gyeong of the University of Cologne's Institute of Musicology, who has worked to promote traditional Korean music in Germany, and the haegeum ensemble K-YUL. Dr. Noh explained that the festival was designed as an opportunity to indirectly experience Korea and as a way for the Korean diaspora to remember their homeland.
'Arirang Echo Cologne' will not be a one-time event; it is planned to be held regularly twice a year, every summer and winter, at the University of Cologne.
