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A toast to friendship : Korea, Jamaica celebrate bond

Published:Monday | November 20, 2017 | 12:00 AMLatara Boodie
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Minister of Health Dr Christopher Tufton and Head of Mission of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea Young Gyyu Lee celebrate the bond between Korea and Jamaica with a week of festivities.
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The Pop Dynamix Dance Group took to the stage by storm with their creative dance to AOA- TM.
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Rashell White and Ashani Edwards from IYF are excited to wear their tradition Korean garb in support of Friendship Week.
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From left: Lisa Ashman, Juan Danielle Lewin and Rochelle Mckenzie say their outfits were inspired by Korean street style.
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Sumae Lee and Seung Moon give a toast to the commemoration of Korea Jamaica's Friendship Week.
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Our camera caught Carla Petite and Odain Murray celebrating with the Koreans.
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From left: Newly appointed CEO of JPS Emanuel DaRosa has the full attention of CEO of MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company, Roger Hinds, and Director of Cultural Policy and monitoring at The Ministry of Youth and Culture, Marisa Benain.
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Helme Hong (left) and Eunja Kyung both believe in the importance of friendship between Korea and Jamaica.
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Last week Tuesday, the Embassy of the Republic of Korea hosted a reception to commemorate Korea-Jamaica Friendship Week at the Mona Visitors' Lodge and Conference Centre in St Andrew.

The rainy night helped to create an intimate atmosphere, which facilitated the blending of the two cultures. Persons came out in their numbers in support of the week, which was aimed at fortifying the bond between Korea and Jamaica.

Head of Mission of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, Young Gyu Lee, was grateful for the turnout despite the weather conditions.

"The week emphasises the gratitude for the friendship between the two countries. One love, one heart, let's get together and feel all right," said Lee.

Guest of honour, Health Minister Dr Christopher Tufton, said he was delighted with the celebration of the partnership between Korea and Jamaica.

"This occasion gives us the opportunity to celebrate the friendship and cooperation between the two countries. Friendship is the only cement that will hold the world together," he said.

Korea International Cooperation Agency master's degree scholarship awardee Sabrina Morant gave a thank you speech, highlighting the support she has received during her time in Korea. She recounted her experience saying how amazing the people were.

"Koreans are honest and have a deep desire to succeed," said Morant.

 

MIXTURE OF DELICACIES

 

Dinner was filled with a mixture of Korean and Jamaican delicacies, such as galbi, gimbap, kimchi, and curried goat. Most persons were trying Korean food for the first time, and were surprised by the rich flavours of each dish.

After dinner, there were performances which portrayed a fusion of Jamaican and Korean cultures. Performances included a taekwondo dance by IYF, which showed their skill and discipline as they moved in sync across the stage. A rendition of Bob Marley's One Love, and an Arirang dance by the Korean Language School and the famous Gangnam Style dance were other highlights.

Other events that were held during the week (November 13-17) included the introduction of the 2017 Korean Film Festival; Korean traditional games such as Tuho, Jegichagi and Neolttwigi; Korean calligraphy; Korean liquor tasting; and Korean snack tasting.