As the Sultanate of Oman gears up to be a distinguished guest at the Seoul International Book Fair 2024, celebrating the 50th anniversary of Omani-Korean cultural relations, excitement is building. This prestigious event will provide a platform to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Oman and honor those who have contributed to the country’s literary scene. The participation of Oman at this international book fair will not only highlight the deep-rooted connections between Oman and South Korea but also strive to promote knowledge, development, and openness between different cultures.
His Excellency Sayyid Saeed bin Sultan Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth for Culture, expressed the significance of Oman’s participation in the Seoul International Book Fair 2024. He emphasized that this event will serve as an opportunity to strengthen communication and interaction between the two countries, especially given the close relations at all levels. The cultural aspect of Oman has undergone significant development, which will be showcased through various cultural programs and events during the fair. The aim is to highlight Oman’s cultural, literary, and artistic heritage while fostering a deeper understanding of the Omani way of life.
Oman’s participation in the Seoul International Book Fair 2024 will include a range of activities tailored to promote Omani-Korean relations. Omani writers will engage in dialogue sessions, while specialists on Omani-Korean relations will share their insights. An exhibition of precious manuscripts will be presented to the Korean public, along with a selection of various publications. Among the translated publications, two books in the Korean language will be featured, including a translation of the novel “Ladies of the Moon” by Omani writer Jokha Al-Harithi. The diverse program at the Sultanate’s pavilion will showcase Omani cultural corners, Arabic calligraphy displays, Omani manuscripts, and an Omani majlis corner, offering visitors a glimpse into Omani customs and traditions.
The cultural exchange between Oman and South Korea at the Seoul International Book Fair 2024 represents a significant milestone in the long-standing diplomatic relations between the two countries. Through this participation, Oman aims to document and disseminate its rich cultural heritage globally, ensuring that its identity, citizenship, and culture are celebrated and shared with a wider audience. By leveraging cultural diplomacy, Oman seeks to enhance its reputation as a hub of creativity and knowledge, while furthering its efforts to promote interest in Omani intellectual pursuits. This participation is aligned with the goals of Oman Vision 2040, which focuses on establishing a society that takes pride in its cultural heritage and identity.
The Sultanate of Oman’s vibrant presence at the Seoul International Book Fair 2024 is poised to strengthen communication frameworks in the cultural, civilizational, and cognitive realms. By showcasing its cultural richness, Oman seeks to foster understanding and appreciation of its unique heritage, while also building bridges with international partners. Through immersive experiences such as live displays of Arabic calligraphy, exhibitions of Omani manuscripts, and virtual reality presentations of cultural vocabularies, visitors will have the opportunity to engage with Oman’s cultural treasures. The visual representations of Oman’s cultural and tourist sites will offer a glimpse into the country’s diverse landscapes and historical landmarks, inviting visitors to explore Oman’s cultural tapestry.
In conclusion, the Sultanate of Oman’s participation in the Seoul International Book Fair 2024 symbolizes a celebration of cultural diversity, knowledge exchange, and international cooperation. By showcasing its literary and artistic achievements, Oman not only pays homage to its rich heritage but also paves the way for future collaborations and partnerships with global players in the cultural arena. Through this participation, Oman affirms its commitment to promoting cultural understanding and dialogue, fostering mutual respect and appreciation across borders. As Oman and South Korea come together to celebrate their shared cultural legacy, the Seoul International Book Fair 2024 promises to be a hub of creativity, innovation, and cultural exchange.