By Shim Sun-ah
South Korea and France celebrate 140 years of diplomatic relations with a year-long festival themed “creativity, opportunity and solidarity.” Around 100 events showcasing music, visual arts, literature, film, drama, and performing arts will be held in 20 cities across South Korea, according to the French Embassy.
French Ambassador Philippe Bertoux stated at a press conference, “This program offers a valuable opportunity to strengthen the friendly ties between our nations across various sectors, including political, cultural, security, educational, and human exchange.”
The festivities begin Saturday with a concert by the Bucheon Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by renowned French conductor Adrien Perruchon, at the Bucheon Arts Center, located approximately 23 kilometers southwest of Seoul. Rising French pianist Arielle Beck will perform as a soloist with the orchestra.
The majority of the major cultural events are scheduled for June, commemorating the signing of the Treaty of Friendship, Commerce and Navigation between France and South Korea 140 years ago.
Early in June, the Centre Pompidou Hanwha Seoul will open its doors at the 63 Building in Yeouido’s financial district. Visitors will have the chance to view an inaugural exhibition featuring pieces from the permanent modern and contemporary art collection of the Centre Pompidou in Paris, which will be closed for renovations until 2030.
The main commemorative ceremony will be held on June 4th at Deoksu Palace in central Seoul, marking the anniversary of the treaty signing in 1886. Soprano Sumi Jo, a recipient of France’s prestigious Commandeur of the Order of Arts and Letters, is among the performers slated to appear.
France will also be the guest of honor at the Seoul International Book Fair 2026, taking place from June 24th to 28th. Furthermore, France will be the focus country at seven international film festivals in Busan, Bucheon, Jeju, and Seoul, as well as two music festivals in Cheorwon and Gapyeong.
In October, the renowned Avignon Festival will make its Asian premiere in South Korea, expanding upon its 2026 edition which features Korean as its official guest language. This event will be integrated into the Seoul Performing Arts Festival, scheduled from October 10th to 15th in Seoul.
The year-long celebration will conclude with a closing cultural performance in Busan in December, with additional details to be announced at a later date.
During the press event, the French Embassy also announced the appointment of South Korean actress Jun Ji-hyun and Felix, a member of the K-pop group Stray Kids, as honorary ambassadors for the anniversary program.
“These two individuals, representing the diverse fields of film and music, embody the dynamism and global prominence of contemporary Korean culture while also symbolizing the deepening cultural exchanges between France and South Korea,” stated the embassy in a press release. As honorary ambassadors, they will participate in key events throughout the year.
