There are many Koreans living in
Sri Lanka and this was evident in the cultural show they had recently
that reflected their cultural identity.
About 30 percent of Koreans are Christians with 30 percent being
Buddhists and even though many don't follow religion in Korean, they are
a very united and harmonious community.
 "There
are about 800 Koreans living in Sri Lanka with many having their own
business ventures", said Jichul Oh of the Korean Resident Association at
their annual gathering. Kang Kyang, the president of the Korean
Residents Association welcomed a large gathering of about 350 Koreans
which was a traditionally enlightening affair where dancers from 'Gapyeong
county' were especially flown in to take part in the festivities.
 The
cultural dances consisted of the traditional drum dance called 'Mugo'
where the graceful dancers beat the drums to a pulsating rhythm and a
mesmerizing ghost dance was performed where the dancer appeared to be in
a trance. The 'Nongak' where farmers celebrate the harvest season was
also performed. "The dances are influenced by Chinese philosophy and a
kind of 'Ying-Yang' combination which is prevalent in Korean dances",
said Jichul Oh.
He said that the traditional Korean dress used in dance is the 'Hambok'
which consists of dazzling colours in silk and satin. The dance finale
was when the dancers paraded in their Korean flag-designed costumes,
held hands and formed a 'human train' that signified togetherness,
harmony and happiness.
One of the guests was Korean language teacher, Aromah Beak who said
in Sinhala, "I love living in Sri Lanka and now I'm completing nearly 20
years".
Tucking into delicious traditional Korean food like 'Kimchi' and 'Banchan',
it was a vibrant atmosphere where happiness prevailed with song and
dance.
"The Korean Resident Association is about 15 years old and many
Koreans still opt to do business and live in Sri Lanka despite terrorism
and the financial setbacks" said Jichul Oh. "The Korean community in Sri
Lanka have done and will continue to do many charitable services" he
said speaking about the Korean-Sri Lankan ties. The Community Service
Centre in Piliyandala sponsored by the Korean government manages a
Kindergarten, IT centre and a music school. The highlight of the event
was the gifting of the drums by the 'Gapyeong county' cultural
association to the Korean Residents Association as a token of
appreciation. It was definitely a night of fun and frolic when the
Koreans in Sri Lanka made merry!
- Nilma
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