Anastasia Zhirnova
A performance by the South Korean show ensemble Show Design Group (SDG) took place at the Magtymguly National Music and Drama Theatre in Ashgabat as part of Korean Culture Week, held on 1–2 November 2026.
The event opened with a welcoming address by the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Turkmenistan, Lee Won Jae, who expressed his gratitude to everyone in attendance for joining the celebration of Korean Culture Week.
In his speech, the Ambassador highlighted the special significance of the 2026 Korean Culture Week, held in commemoration of the first Republic of Korea–Central Asia Summit. He also emphasized the importance of further strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cultural exchanges between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea, expressing his hope that the event would give guests an opportunity to become more familiar with Korean culture.
The highlight of the evening was the multimedia show Harmony of Light, which brought together traditional Korean art and modern technologies. The programme featured a variety of performances, including a contemporary interpretation of the traditional Hwagwanmu dance, breakdancing, a luminous ball performance, video art and beatboxing.
Particular attention was drawn to performances inspired by elements of Korean national culture. These included a performance featuring the traditional Korean janggu drum, combining dance and music, as well as Obangsaek and K-pop, a production that blended the symbolism of Korea’s five traditional colours with contemporary pop culture, LED costumes and multimedia effects. One of the dancers proved that the world of dance can transcend human physical limitations by performing complex choreography on a single leg. The programme concluded with a spectacular joint performance by all the artists.
During the event, Minhyuk, a representative of the group, also addressed the audience, engaging guests in an interactive performance and inviting them to show their support with enthusiastic applause. He highlighted the historical ties between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea, referring to their connections along the ancient Silk Road, as well as the 34-year history of diplomatic relations between the two countrie
The show turned into a vibrant introduction to modern Korean culture, proving that national traditions can take on a contemporary visual form through cutting-edge technology and special effects. /// nCa, 2 November 2026
Some pictures from the event:
