South Korean culture, history get day to shine at Osaka Expo
A parade modeled on Korean diplomatic missions during the Edo Period marches below the Grand Ring in Osaka's Konohana Ward on May 13. (Hiyori Uchiumi)
OSAKA—A historical parade and other events to celebrate South Korea's 'National Day' highlighted the festivities at the Osaka Kansai Expo on May 13, one month after the expo's opening.
To promote international exchanges, countries participating in the world's fair will hold individual National Days to present their culture and history at the expo venue in Osaka's Konohana Ward.
On South Korea's day, a parade modeled on diplomatic missions from the Joseon Dynasty to Japan during the Edo Period (1603-1867) departed from outside the Korean Pavilion. The procession of people dressed in colorful court uniforms marched below the Grand Ring, the symbol of the expo.
After the parade, an official ceremony was held.
South Korean Industry Minister Ahn Duk-geun gave a speech at the ceremony, saying, 'We hope this expo will become the starting point for South Korea and Japan to take initiatives together for the future of society over the next 50 years.'
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