First Lady Kim Keon-hee enjoys 'Arirang and Tango' performance in Argentina

South Korean First Lady Kim Keon-hee experienced a unique cultural fusion during her visit to Argentina, attending a concert that blended Korean traditional music (Gukak) with tango. The event, held at the Usina del Arte in Buenos Aires, marked the 20th anniversary of the Korean Cultural Center in Argentina.

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I am so glad and happy to meet you in Buenos Aires, the home of tango and the city of art.

Kim, who is accompanying President Yoon Suk Yeol on his state visit, watched the performance titled 'Arirang and Tango: Two Hearts, One Rhythm.' She noted the evocative title and expressed her anticipation for a beautiful and moving stage. The concert aimed to deepen cultural exchange and friendship between the two nations.

In her remarks, Kim drew parallels between the emotional resonance of tango and Arirang, both of which express longing, joy, sorrow, and the passion for life. She pointed out that both cultural forms have been recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, underscoring their shared artistic value.

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Just hearing the title of today's performance, 'Arirang and Tango: Two Hearts, One Rhythm,' makes me anticipate a beautiful and exciting stage.

The performance featured the Buenos Aires Tango Quintet and the National Gugak Center's Creative Ensemble, showcasing pieces like Piazzolla's 'Buenos Aires Hora Cero' and traditional Korean folk songs. A highlight was the joint performance of 'Libertango' and 'Arirang' by musicians from both countries, accompanied by dancers.

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Tango contains the hearts of the Argentine people, from longing for their homeland, the joy of love, the sorrow of separation, to the passionate enthusiasm to carry on life at any moment.

Kim was impressed by the harmonious collaboration between Gukak and tango, noting how well the distinct styles complemented each other. She expressed hope that the concert would serve as a significant milestone for future cultural exchanges between Korea and Argentina. Following the performance, local citizens approached Kim for photos, which she graciously accommodated.

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Arirang has also stayed by our side in times of joy and sorrow, singing of feelings that are difficult to express in words, and offering hope to walk again amidst a difficult life.