Training Organization (Publication): CID-UNESCO
Jung-Hwan KANG
Seoul Section of the International Dance Council CID-UNESCO
The Cultural Partnership Initiative (CPI), with active long-term participation from the Seoul Section of the International Dance Council (CID-UNESCO), has been instrumental in expanding the global performing arts network through creative and practical exchanges with artists from ODA (Official Development Assistance) partner countries. Over time, CPI has grown into an artistic platform that goes beyond education and skill transfer, enabling the sharing of diverse cultural backgrounds and artistic contexts to generate collective value while further broadening the global performing arts network.
Building on the networks established through CPI, the Asia-Africa-South America Dance Exchange programs in 2018 and 2019 facilitated profound cultural exchanges through dance. While respecting the artistic differences between regions, the program allowed participants to share their countries’ dances and cultural traditions, expanding the spectrum of artistic expression. This initiative laid a foundation for international networks, establishing a key bridge that connected the Korean dance community to the global stage.
In 2020, despite the physical limitations imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, CPI continued its mission through innovative virtual formats. A program was successfully conducted for dancers in the Philippines, focusing on contemporary dance creation and planning. In 2021, the program offered lectures on dance visualization for Indian dance artists, combining theory and practice to explore innovative methods of creation inspired by traditional Indian dance. These virtual initiatives underscored the resilience of international exchange even during the global pandemic, and the participants carried their creative work forward while maintaining long-term networks with the International Dance Counci
In 2022 and 2023, the program’s scope and objectives expanded significantly. Training programs for performing arts festival experts equipped participants with practical skills in business planning and execution, successfully cultivating regional festival planners. This shift in focus—from enhancing individual capacities to empowering planners capable of influencing regional arts and cultural communities—achieved a broader and more sustainable impact. Festivals organized by these participants began inviting Korean artists, creating a virtuous cycle of international artistic exchange and collaboration.
Today, CPI has established itself as a global platform that transcends time, place, and boundaries to offer new artistic inspiration. More significantly, it has empowered leading Korean arts organizations to promote Korean art and culture on the global stage, facilitate international collaboration, and contribute to the development of a sustainable creative ecosystem.
Looking ahead, CPI will continue to expand opportunities for cultural collaboration and explore innovative directions for Korean art and culture. The initiative will ensure that Korea’s diverse artistic traditions and practices extend their influence worldwide, particularly in ODA partner countries, while reinforcing Korea’s position as a key player in the international arts community.
