The National Center for Korean Traditional Performing Arts (Director Kim Joong-hyun) explored new possibilities for cultural and artistic exchange between South Korea and China during a meeting with the Beijing Opera Troupe, a representative Chinese opera group, in Beijing on the 4th of last month. This meeting is part of the National Center for Korean Traditional Performing Arts' efforts to expand international exchanges, with a significant focus on the common artistic styles and narrative structures between pansori (Korean traditional narrative singing) and changgeuk (Chinese opera).

The Beijing Opera Troupe, established in the 1950s, is a leading opera group in China that continues the tradition of "Northern Opera." Peking opera, developed in Beijing, is a form of musical drama that combines singing, recitation, acting, and martial arts. It is a modern performance style based on traditional Chinese arts and is a distinct genre separate from Peking opera.

During the meeting, both sides discussed key topics such as exchange of young artists, joint development of creative plays based on traditional performing arts, and promoting collaborative performances. They agreed to cooperate to achieve tangible results. They decided to first explore cooperation in the field of children's performances, which is expected to establish a foundation for cultural exchange targeting future generations of audiences.

Additionally, positive opinions were shared regarding programs where art troupe members conduct educational activities in each other's countries. It is anticipated that further development through concrete agreements, such as memorandums of understanding, will help introduce Asian culture to the world.

Currently, the Beijing Opera Troupe is actively participating in major cultural events and performances both domestically and internationally, focusing on the development of children's and youth performance contents to contribute to the spread of traditional Chinese performing arts.

During the meeting, the National Center for Korean Traditional Performing Arts introduced a video of a children's Korean traditional music play titled "Dungdak Dungdak in the Forest," performed in English in Australia and the Philippines, receiving positive feedback on the popularity of English content for children in China. They also watched videos of Korean traditional plays such as "The Song of the Carriage at the In-Laws' House" and "Chunhyangjeon," sharing a high level of interest in future exchange possibilities.

Following this meeting, the National Center for Korean Traditional Performing Arts is continuing communication with the Beijing Opera Troupe to coordinate specific collaboration plans. They plan to expand the scope of cooperation through regular discussions to lead to practical performance initiatives.

Director Kim Joong-hyun stated, "Both opera and pansori are representative genres of each country that combine storytelling and singing. By combining their strengths, we can create a new stage that attracts attention not only in Asia but also globally." He expressed hope that "small steps in children's performance cooperation will lead to significant achievements in cultural and artistic exchanges between the two countries."