On March 11, the Korean Cultural Centre India hosted a lively and vibrant celebration, offering participants not only a day of fun but also an opportunity to explore the deep cultural symbolism of colors in Korea. The event was a remarkable blend of festivities and cultural exchange, leaving attendees with colorful memories and newfound insights into Korean traditions.
At the heart of the celebration was the introduction of ‘Obangsaek,’ the Korean concept of the ‘Five Cardinal Colors.’ Obangsaek is a traditional Korean color scheme that incorporates five key colors—White, Black, Blue, Yellow, and Red—each of which carries historical and cultural significance. In Korea, these colors play a vital role in various aspects of life, including art, clothing, food, architecture, and religion.
Amidst the spirited Holi festivities, participants learned about the unique meanings behind each color and their importance to Korean culture. Every color in Obangsaek is associated with a specific direction, natural element, and virtue, symbolizing a harmonious balance within the universe. For instance, ‘Red’ represents the direction ‘South,’ the ‘Fire’ element, and the virtue of ‘Propriety,’ while ‘Blue’ is linked to the direction ‘East,’ the ‘Wood’ element, and the virtue of ‘Benevolence.’
The event was a true cultural exchange between Korea and India, as participants explored the meanings behind Holi’s vibrant hues and Korea’s Obangsaek. Indian and Korean attendees enthusiastically applied colors to one another, creating an atmosphere of unity and joy. For some Korean participants, it was their first time experiencing Holi, adding an extra layer of excitement to the festivities. The celebration was further energized by traditional Holi songs such as ‘Balam Pichkari,’ ‘Holi Khele Raghuveera,’ and ‘Rang Barse,’ which had everyone dancing together.
Adding to the cultural fusion, several participants donned the ‘Hanbok,’ Korea’s traditional attire, as a gesture of respect for the Indian festival and to symbolize the growing bond between the two cultures. In contemporary Korea, a Hanbok is often worn during special occasions such as wedding ceremonies, children’s first birthdays, and seasonal holidays like the Lunar New Year and Chuseok.
Hwang Il Yong, Director of the Korean Cultural Centre India, emphasized the deep-rooted connection between the two cultures through the symbolism of colors. “Colors hold deep cultural significance in both India and Korea. Just as Holi in India symbolizes the victory of good over evil and the joy of togetherness through vibrant hues, Korea’s Obangsaek represents harmony in the universe, balancing the five cardinal colors with nature and philosophy. This shared appreciation for colors reflects the deep-rooted connections between our cultures, celebrating life, tradition, and unity through the language of colors.”
This event served as a testament to the cultural ties between India and Korea, highlighting how colors transcend boundaries and create a bridge between traditions. Through shared celebrations like these, the Korean Cultural Centre India continues to foster deeper understanding and appreciation between the two nations, reinforcing the beauty of cultural exchange through the universal language of colors.
Photo Credits: Korean Cultural Centre India
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