The future of Korea's culture industry is convergence

Where food meets art

One organization that has been particularly committed to the concept of convergence is the Arumjigi Culture Keepers Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting traditional Korean culture.

For instance, the exhibition currently underway at its headquarters in Jongno District, central Seoul, titled "Traditional Alcoholic Beverages With Side Dishes", introduces Korean traditional drinking culture. However, it goes far beyond makgeolli (traditional rice wine) in plain wooden bowls.

The beverages and dishes are presented like modern artworks, with sleek design pieces that look like they belong in a high-end art gallery or department store.

Kim Hye-jin of Arumjigi's culture planning team said that people tend to think of traditional practices as old or difficult, so they deliberated on ways to make the show more attractive. "That's how we thought of introducing pretty and sophisticated chinaware that people would feel the urge to purchase and keep in their dining rooms."

Besides introducing 10 types of traditional alcoholic beverages, the show has also recreated, with the help of traditional Korean food experts, the accompanying anju, or side dishes that are enjoyed with drinks. At the same time, the traditional drink and food experts collaborated with traditional craft artisans and contemporary ceramics designers to create the most appropriate - and beautiful - bottles, cups and plates.

The exhibition, which runs until Oct 30, is Arumjigi's 12th exhibition. The foundation has always operated this way, suggesting a whole new way to promote Korean culture.