Saudi Arabia recently inaugurated its pavilion at the Seoul International Book Fair 2024, which is being held from 26 to 30 June at the COEX Convention and Exhibition Complex in Seoul, South Korea. The Kingdom is participating in the event as the guest of honor, showcasing its cultural richness through various aspects. The Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, along with other cultural bodies under the Ministry of Culture, are leading the Saudi pavilion’s integrated experience. Various programs and seminars will be held, focusing on the history, antiquities, and traditions of the Kingdom, as well as the commonalities between Korean and Arabic languages.
One of the highlights of the Saudi pavilion at the Seoul International Book Fair is the launch of the “Book of Commentaries in the Korean Language,” a collaborative project between the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) and the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission. Additionally, the King Salman Global Academy Prize for Arabic Language will introduce a project for the promotion of the Arabic language in Korea. Through its participation in the book fair, Saudi Arabia aims to strengthen partnerships with Korea, promote cultural dialogue, and enhance cooperation in literature, culture, and arts. The Kingdom will also showcase the hospitable nature of its people and their pride in their culture, history, and heritage.
Saudi Arabia’s presence as the guest of honor in international book fairs such as the Seoul International Book Fair demonstrates the Kingdom’s significant role in enriching the global cultural landscape. In addition to its participation in the Seoul Book Fair, Saudi Arabia was previously honored at the New Delhi International Book Fair and the Beijing International Book Fair. The Seoul International Book Fair is recognized as one of the most prominent book fairs in Asia and around the world, with about 90 publishing institutions and companies from 19 countries participating in this year’s event.
The Saudi pavilion at the Seoul International Book Fair will feature cultural programs led by a select group of writers, who will conduct dialogue sessions and seminars on various topics such as Saudi women writers, Arab poetry, the Saudi novel, and the merging of Korean and Arabic singing. The pavilion will also highlight the contributions of language in transmitting cultural values, traditions, and societal norms. Through these programs, Saudi Arabia aims to promote a deeper understanding and appreciation of its cultural heritage and engage in meaningful exchanges with participants and visitors at the book fair.
The participation of Saudi Arabia in the Seoul International Book Fair is part of the Kingdom’s efforts to strengthen cultural ties with Korea, foster greater cooperation in the literary and artistic fields, and celebrate the rich tapestry of Saudi culture. By showcasing its cultural traditions and heritage at international platforms like the book fair, Saudi Arabia seeks to build bridges between different cultures and civilizations, promote mutual understanding, and enhance global cultural exchanges. The Kingdom’s presence as the guest of honor at the Seoul Book Fair reflects its commitment to promoting cultural diplomacy and showcasing the diversity and vibrancy of Saudi arts and literature on the international stage.
In conclusion, the Saudi pavilion at the Seoul International Book Fair 2024 offers a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the Kingdom, engage with Saudi literature and arts, and participate in informative discussions and seminars led by esteemed writers and cultural experts. Through its presence as the guest of honor, Saudi Arabia seeks to strengthen its partnerships with Korea, promote cross-cultural dialogue, and highlight the interconnectedness of global literary traditions. The participation of Saudi Arabia in international book fairs underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to cultural diplomacy, fostering global cultural exchanges, and celebrating the diversity of cultural expressions around the world.
