The South Korean Ministry of Unification organized the 2024 Unification Cultural Event for Overseas Koreans in Leipzig, Germany, on November 9, 2024. Held under the theme "Reise zur Freiheit!" (Journey for Liberty), the event took place at Nikolaikirche Square, a significant location in German reunification history.
The event, which coincided with the "12th Concert for the Unification of Korea," attracted overseas Koreans and local citizens despite cold weather conditions. It featured a diverse program including musical performances, live art, and interactive activities designed to promote awareness of North Korean human rights issues and the concept of Korean unification.
A highlight of the event was a performance by "2345," winners of the Ministry's annual music festival, who presented a variety of musical styles including K-pop, classical guitar, jazz, and operatic pop. North Korean defector artist An Soo-min conducted a live painting show titled "Painting the Light of Liberty," using the opportunity to discuss the stark differences in freedom of expression between South and North Korea.
The event also included interactive elements such as a North Korean human rights simulation game using VR technology and a symbolic activity where participants cut through barbed wire to receive a "liberty bracelet." These activities were designed to provide attendees with tangible experiences related to the realities of life in North Korea and the aspirations for reunification.
Visitor feedback highlighted the impact of these experiences, with attendees expressing how the event deepened their understanding of the Korean reunification issue. The Ministry of Unification plans to continue organizing such cultural events to engage overseas Koreans and international audiences in the topic of Korean unification.
This event is part of a broader initiative by the Ministry, which has held similar events in the United States under the same "Journey for Liberty" theme. The continuation of these events underscores South Korea's ongoing efforts to maintain international awareness and support for reunification, as well as to highlight human rights issues in North Korea.
The Leipzig event's location and theme draw parallels between German reunification and the aspirations for Korean reunification, potentially resonating with both Korean and international audiences. By engaging overseas Koreans and local citizens in Germany, the Ministry aims to foster a global community supportive of Korean reunification efforts.
