In 15th-century Korea, all people with disabilities were considered valuable members of society. They were actively supported in their social advancement and role. Viewed from this perspective, the past has taught important lessons.
The Special Olympics, beginning in Berlin in June, will help ensure that these teachings are heard around the world. The Korean Cultural Center is hosting a "K-Pop Party with Special Olympics" as part of the Special Olympics, to which athletes and interested parties are invited.
1. K-Pop Stage
1) K-Pop DJing with DJ Roo
"K-Pop fascinates the whole world and with K-Pop we start the Special Olympic Party!" Countless Korean singers and groups such as BTS, BLACKPINK, Stray Kids, NCT and New Jeans conquered the hearts of pop with their music and performances -fans. At the same time, K-Pop established itself as a representative, cultural aspect of Korea, which is why it will of course also be present at our party. The focus is on the artist DJ Roo (JIN Entertainment), who has already demonstrated his skills as a DJ throughout Germany.
2) K-Pop Dance Performance: NotYou Crew by C-Hope Berlin
The team of the Berlin dance crew NotYou Crew from C-Hope Berlin is characterized by perfect dance covers and individuality. They are a group of talented fans who won the 2021 K-Pop DIY Award as well as the 2019 World Festival Berlin Regional Qualifying Award. Their performance will open the K-Pop DJ Party.
2. Korea stage
1) Holo Arirang – Haegeum Performance (Dowon Kim, Athlete Director of Special Olympics Korea)
Arirang is a symbol of traditional Korean folk songs and is closely associated with the history of the Korean Peninsula. Various versions of this song can be found all over the world, including all regions of the Korean Peninsula. In the song "Holo Arirang" (composed by Handol) released in 1990, modern rhythms were added, describing Korea as a beautiful painting. Dowon Kim - Athlete Leader of Special Olympics Korea - plays this "Holo Arirang" with haegeum - a traditional stringed instrument from Korea - to deliver a message of peace.
2) Samulnori
Samulnori means "to play with four instruments". The four instruments in this case are Kwaengkwari, Janggu, Buk and Jing - traditional Korean musical instruments. Each of them has its own sound characteristics. Played individually it is difficult to imagine how they would ring together in an ensemble, but when the samulnori begin they amaze with their harmony and intensity. In this sense, the connection between the instruments in samulnori is comparable to the Special Olympics motto #UnbeatableTogether
3) Gayageum Performance (Kim Doo-young, Lecturer at Korean Cultural Center)
Gayageum is a representative traditional instrument in Korea. The party gets started with their unique and lyrical sound.
3. Nori Madang (놀이마당)
"Nori" (놀이) means "to play" and "madang" (마당) means "place or situation where something is done" in Korean. At the "Nori Madang Zone," visitors can try a variety of games, Korean food, Korean traditional clothing, and a photo zone.
1) Game Zone
There are Korean games here. Enjoy the fun but simple traditional Korean games like tuho and jegi-chagi.
2) Hansik Zone
Hansik – Korean food is considered very healthy. The vegetable and meat mix as well as the different fermentation systems ensure a very balanced diet. The prepared finger food and drinks can be tasted at the party
3) Hanbok and photo zone
The "Hanbok" is a traditional Korean garment that has undergone changes for thousands of years. Based on the hanbok from the Joseon era, a new generation of hanbok with a modern design is now establishing itself in the world. Try wearing a hanbok yourself and take a souvenir photo at the photo booth.
Registration for the event is necessary.
Additional information
- Registration required (k-pop@kulturkorea.org)
Accessibility
- Venues and rooms are barrier-free/wheelchair accessible.