By UN Journal Lee Kap-soo
From September 20 to 28, Nami Island in Gangwon-do hosted the “Peru Week”, a cultural event featuring a variety of activities celebrating Peruvian heritage and traditions. The program was designed for both Korean and international visitors of all ages, in coordination with the Embassy of Peru in the Republic of Korea.
The weeklong celebration offered visitors a chance to experience Peru’s cultural and natural heritage, featuring art exhibitions, music and dance performances, and hands-on activities. It drew thousands of Korean and international tourists who flock to Nami Island each autumn — a peak season that sees an average of 12,000 visitors daily and nearly 20,000 on weekends.
During the opening ceremony, together with the CEO of Nami Island Arts & Education, the Ambassador of Peru to the Republic of Korea Paul Fernando Duclos Parodi remarked, “We are delighted to see the beauty and diversity of Peru shared with Korean and international audiences in such a meaningful setting.” Following the ceremony, the Embassy presented vibrant dance and music performances by the Peruvian Cultural Association C.I.D.A.N. “Mi Perú” and the ensemble “Peru Latin.”
Throughout “Peru Week,” Peruvian flags and banners adorned Nami Island’s main entrances, paths, and ferry docks, symbolizing the warmth and friendship between Peru and Korea, and marking another milestone in the growing cultural connection between both nations. Moreover, visitors enjoyed a range of engaging activities — painting Peruvian-themed tote bags, coloring traditional motifs, and playing a child-friendly version of classic Peruvian games. Also, local Korean groups added to the festive spirit with live Latin music performances.
A major highlight of the week was the special exhibition “Treasures of Peru: The Amazon Rainforest,” presented at Paz Gallery. The exhibition showcased striking photographs of Peru’s Amazonian landscapes, flora, fauna, and ecosystems, along with the acclaimed series “Portraits of My Blood” by Peruvian photographer David Díaz, offering an intimate portrayal of the Shipibo-Konibo people of the Amazon.
On September 27, the HEI School Nami Island — part of the Helsinki International Schools network — hosted a special educational program about Peru. Students explored the country’s geography, symbols, and biodiversity through interactive learning and creative workshops.
They also prepared alfajores, and decorated Ayacucho retablos, dolls, and bags with iconic Peruvian designs such as Machu Picchu, Pucará bulls, and alpacas. The celebration concluded with two days of live performances by Peruvian musician Ángel Puma, who captivated audiences with traditional Peruvian melodies.
