Curator / Researcher
Special Project
Cultural Diversity Project
1.2017-12.2017
Curated by Jisu Yoon
Partner
Organization
Asia Cultural Human Rights Solidarity
Sejong Multicultural Family Support Center
Sejong City Government, Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism
Sejong City Office of Education, Special Education Support Center
Sejong YWCA Sexual Rights Counseling Center
Sejong Senior Talent Bank
Beyond Art Studio
Busan Foundation for Culture
Gwangju Cultural Foundation
Korean Studies Institute, Korea University
Project Overview
Jisu Yoon, Project Manager
The Arts Council of Korea's Cultural Diversity Project is implemented annually nationwide to respect and promote the diverse cultural backgrounds of Korean society. Building on this mission, Sejong City has developed foundational initiatives that connect various cultural resources and communities while fostering networks. These initiatives have taken many forms, including roundtable discussions, cultural diversity assessments, reporter groups, Cultural Diversity Week festivals, and public art programs with active citizen participation. The goal is to enhance communication and cultural engagement among residents, contributing to the integration and harmony of the local community. As a result, the Cultural Diversity Project has established a solid foundation for residents to understand better and respect each other's cultures. This has been key in creating a sustainable cultural ecosystem within Sejong City. In this process, cultural diversity has become vital in strengthening the local residents' sense of identity and belonging. Moving forward, Sejong City will continue to work toward creating an environment where diverse cultures can coexist harmoniously.
Round table
The "Round Table" aimed at spreading cultural diversity in Sejong City was a significant opportunity for various local stakeholders to engage in in-depth discussions, going beyond mere exchange of opinions to illuminate the richness of culture and explore practical measures. This project involved 17 experts from diverse backgrounds, including public institutions, minority organisations, and cultural arts entities, focusing on the values of cultural diversity and local issues. During the round table, the concept of cultural diversity was established, and practical community implementation approaches were explored. Key issues highlighted included the gap between old and new urban areas, as well as feelings of alienation between immigrants and native residents, prompting active discussions aimed at addressing these challenges. Participants emphasised the necessity of enhancing mutual understanding and building cultural solidarity. Subsequent meetings referenced successful cases of cultural diversity enhancement from Gwangju and Busan, discussing actionable regional program development. Emphasis was placed on education themed around cultural diversity and establishing ongoing networks, leading to discussions on effectively utilising local cultural resources. The understanding emerged that the program's progression should not be limited to one-off events but should evolve into sustainable forms that reflect the region's unique characteristics.
Additionally, the importance of incorporating diverse opinions into cultural diversity programs was underscored. By creating programs where both majority and minority groups can participate, the aim was to foster a cultural environment that all community members can share and relate to. This series of discussions significantly expanded awareness of cultural diversity and laid the groundwork for maximising Sejong City's potential. The process of bringing residents, experts, and public institutions together for in-depth dialogue is a crucial foundation for ensuring that cultural diversity transcends mere policy and becomes a lived and shared cultural value. In conclusion, the Sejong City Round Table has established itself as a comprehensive and sustainable platform that not only fosters discussions aimed at enhancing cultural diversity but also reflects the diverse voices of the local community to drive tangible change. This forum has clarified the direction and vision for Sejong City's future, marking a significant milestone for upcoming cultural diversity initiatives.
Cultural Diversity Week Event
The 2017 Cultural Diversity Week event, titled "Enjoying Differences," was designed to allow local residents to understand and appreciate diverse cultures. The event focused on encouraging citizens to embrace cultural differences positively and foster an atmosphere of respect for one another's uniqueness.
The event featured a variety of programs, including a community mosaic mural project and screenings of the "Olliboli" picture book. Additionally, a social media campaign centred around cultural diversity aimed to engage a broader audience and promote cultural awareness within the local community.
These activities were structured to allow citizens to participate quickly, enabling them to experience and recognize the value of cultural diversity firsthand. Moving forward, this event will continue to strive towards enhancing the cultural inclusivity of the community and creating opportunities to acknowledge and respect each other's differences.
Survey on Cultural Diversity in Sejong City
The 2017 Rainbow Bridge project included a survey on cultural diversity in Sejong City, led by Professor Ahn Nam-il of Korea University’s Institute of Korean Studies. This study aimed to analyze cultural diversity resources in the region and assess citizen perceptions, with participation from 100 Sejong Special Self-Governing City citizens, considering various age groups and regions. The survey's primary purpose was to understand the cultural diversity awareness among Sejong citizens and to investigate the current status of cultural diversity-related resources in the area. A mixed-method approach was employed, including face-to-face interviews and surveys, and the findings are intended to serve as critical foundational data for developing tailored cultural diversity policies for Sejong City. The investigation of cultural diversity resources and current conditions focused on analyzing cultural diversity-related institutions and programs in the region, collecting information necessary for future content development. Furthermore, the survey examined citizens' awareness and attitudes towards cultural diversity and their sense of distance from minority groups, establishing a basis to reflect the cultural needs of the local community.
Supporters program
The Cultural Diversity Supporters Program aims to build a network of individuals committed to promoting cultural diversity within the community. This initiative has recruited 11 participants who possess a strong interest in culture, arts, and diversity, as well as skills in digital communication and design. Many of these supporters have experience in volunteering or similar activities. The main objectives of the program are to enhance awareness of cultural diversity through various promotional activities, discover diverse content to invigorate the project, and foster a sense of pride and community involvement among citizens of Sejong City. Additionally, the program utilizes social media platforms to raise local awareness.
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