Korea Day set for October 4

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu Korean Association, Incorporated will hold the fourth Cebu City Korea Day next month as it aims for Cebuanos to know and understand better the Korean Culture.

“It’s a cultural exchange of nation. Our purpose is to have a better understanding on Korean Culture,” said Cinbeth Orellano, executive director of Cultural and Historical Affairs Commission.

A series of activities will be made before the main event on October 4 at the SM Northwing Atrium hosted by CKAI, with the Cebu City Government and CHAC.

From October 1 to 5, a Korean Film festival in SM City Cebu Cinema 2 will show seven Korean films for free while from October 3 to 5, a Korean food festival will be held at the SM Entrance 1 and a Korean Culture Exhibit will be done at the SM third floor Mosaic Area.

Joseph Shin, Vice President of CKAI, said they are expecting 20,000 to 30,000 Koreans and Filipinos to take part in the activities.

Nikki Charmaine Reambonza, admin and event staff of CKAI, said an audience from Luzon is also expected since “K-Pop” (Korean pop) group, NOM, will also be presenting during the Cebu KPOP Star Grand Finals on October 3 and during the main event on October 4.

Ana Maria Quisumbing, Cebu City’s Tourism Operations Officer, said the event is open to all.

Quisumbing said Cebu City has everything to offer for Koreans.

“We have the beaches, the mountains, we have the historical and cultural (destinations). It’s very easy to introduce Cebu City. There are always something new in Cebu City,” she said, adding that they continue to note the increase in the number of Korean visitors to Cebu City every year.

Meanwhile, Quisumbing said that when it comes to the economic growth of the city, Koreans have contributed a lot.

“Ever since they have come (here to the city), they are opening more businesses now. They feel safe, they feel secure and then the relationship (is good),” she said.

According to her, most of the employees of the Korean businessmen are Cebuanos. “Magkasinabtanay man sila. They understand each other wala gyud conflict,” she added. — Mechelle P. Florita/ATO (FREEMAN)