Korean dance had experienced a severe lack of international exchanges, but that has been surmounted, to a certain degree, since the formation of the CID-UNESCO Korea Chapter in 1996. SIDance stands out among its various activities to promote Korean dance.

A brief history of Korean dance will better explain SIDance’s role. Korea’s first glimpse of Western dance, including classical ballet, came in the early 20th century at an inconsistent pace through indirect routes. The modernization of Korean ethnic dance and rigid learning of Western dance took place languidly after independence from Japanese colonial rule in 1945. Martha Graham’s techniques were introduced in the 1960s and were followed by the vigorous creation of contemporary dances in the 70s. The 1980s were considered a renaissance for Korean dance: 2nd and 3rd generation choreographers began to replace the tradition-bound 1st generation. However, this new wave of choreographers themselves divulged serious limitations as major creative forces in the 1990s. Their abilities failed to meet international standards, so they mainly served as stepping stones for the next generation in their 20s and 30s.

The 10th Seoul International Dance Festival proudly presents a variety of acclaimed domestic and international performances from September 30 to October 20 this year at the prestigious venues in Korea such as Seoul Arts Center Towol Theatre and Jayu Theatre. Several events such as Choreography Workshops with participating dance companies and the 3rd Seoul Performing Arts Critics Forum – an academic programme for foreign journalists to understand and immerse themselves in unique and colourful Korean culture and performing arts, will also be jointly held with the Festival.