Art Exhibitions Planned

The Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) and the Seoul Metropolitan Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to bolster cultural ties between the United Arab Emirates and South Korea. This marks the first such collaboration in the Arab world.

The agreement builds upon a 15-year relationship between the two regions, aiming to foster deeper artistic exchange and mutual understanding. It envisions long-term partnerships and collaborative projects that transcend geographical boundaries.

H. E. Huda Alkhamis-Kanoo, Founder of ADMAF, highlighted the long-standing cooperation between the UAE and South Korea, encompassing energy, trade, education, and – most importantly in this context – culture. She elaborated on ADMAF's experience in showcasing Korean culture, including featuring the Korean Symphony Orchestra and the Korean National Ballet at the Abu Dhabi Festival. She also mentioned ADMAF's visit to Seoul in 2023, where they met with cultural leaders and institutions.

This MoU paves the way for significant cultural achievements, beginning with two groundbreaking exhibitions of contemporary art. The first will showcase Korean art at Manarat Al Saadiyat Cultural District in Abu Dhabi, marking its debut in the Middle East. The second exhibition will feature works from over 50 Emirati artists displayed for the first time at the Seoul Museum of Art.

"South Korean artists and cultural institutions started as partners to ADMAF, " Alkhamis-Kanoo said, "but now we consider them dear friends and companions on a journey of discovery and cultural dialogue. "

Seoul Mayor H. E. Oh Se-Hoon echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of cultural exchange in building friendship between Seoul and Abu Dhabi. He commended Abu Dhabi's commitment to nurturing its cultural scene, citing the establishment of prestigious institutions like NYU Abu Dhabi and Louvre Abu Dhabi. He also highlighted Seoul's efforts to position itself as a global cultural hub through events like the Seoul Festa and Frieze Seoul.

"Today, as we formalize cooperation, " Oh Se-Hoon stated, "we embark on a journey to establish our cities as global centers of culture and arts. . . Our shared passion for culture serves as a unifying force transcending borders. "

The MoU signifies a new chapter in cultural collaboration between Abu Dhabi and Seoul. Looking ahead, both parties envision future art exhibitions, co-productions, and co-commissions, solidifying this artistic alliance.