Karachi: To commemorate 40 years of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Republic of Korea, Department of Archeology and Museum (DOAM) in collaboration with Embassy of Republic of Korea organised photographic exhibition titled ‘40 Years of Diplomatic Relations between Republic of Korea and Pakistan.’

According to reports reaching here, exhibition opened here features photographs of historical sites and monuments in Pakistan and Korea including Buddhist sites in Pakistan. It also showcases work done during excavations, conservation and restoration of important Buddhist sites in both countries.

Park Kijun Korean Ambassador, Executive Director of Korea Cultural Heritage Foundation and Dr. Abdul Azeem, Director General of DOAM addressed.

Ambassador Park Kijun highlighted vast potential for mutually beneficial collaboration in diverse fields. He said that special exhibition promises to bring cultural heritage of Pakistan and Korea together.

Joint Secretary of National Heritage and Culture Division emphasised longstanding friendship and cooperation between Pakistan and South Korea, which have resulted in substantial advancements in their bilateral relations over past four decades. He highlighted shared interest of both countries in ensuring peaceful and prosperous South Asia and their cooperation in various multilateral fora.

He stressed broad spectrum of cooperation between Pakistan and Korea, encompassing areas such as cultural heritage. He mentioned that Buddhism, with its diverse tapestry of traditions and life teachings, was introduced to ancient Baekje Kingdom in Korea from present-day Pakistan by Monk Maranantha nearly 1,500 years ago.

Exhibition features diverse range of photographs, capturing rich cultural heritage of both Pakistan and Korea. Some of notable photographs include panoramic view of ancient city of Taxila in Pakistan, UNESCO World Heritage Site. Close-up of Buddha statue from Gandhara region of Pakistan, dating back to 2nd century AD.

Photograph of Bulguksa Temple in Korea, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Photograph of Seokguram Grotto in Korea, home to magnificent 7th-century Buddha statue.

Exhibition also features photographs of ongoing conservation and restoration work at important Buddhist sites in both countries. For example, one photograph shows archaeologists working at site of ancient city of Mohenjo-daro in Pakistan, while another photograph shows conservators restoring Buddhist mural at Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond in Korea. Photographic exhibition is reminder of shared commitment of Pakistan and Korea to preserving and promoting their cultural heritage. Exhibition is open to public until November 10, 2023 at Pakistan National Museum Islamabad.

Published in The Daily National Courier, October, 28 2023

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