The threads of tradition, diplomacy, and friendship came together on July 21, 2025, in Seoul, where Romania’s cultural soul was celebrated in full color. To mark both the International Day of the Romanian Blouse and the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Romania and Korea, the Embassy of Romania organized a vibrant cultural event at Art Space Hoseo in the heart of the Korean capital.
Titled “Romanian Rhapsody”, the exhibition showcased not only Romania’s textile artistry, but also a deep-rooted cultural identity that continues to inspire fashion designers, artists, and creators around the world.
IA: More Than a Blouse
The Romanian blouse, or “ie”, is more than just traditional clothing — it is a living piece of cultural heritage. Worn for centuries in rural communities, each ie carries a story, hand-stitched in intricate patterns that differ from region to region. It’s no wonder that international brands like Dior or Yves Saint Laurent have drawn inspiration from its beauty and symbolism.
Even the art world has paid tribute. French painter Henri Matisse famously created the piece “La blouse roumaine” (The Romanian Blouse) in 1940, forever linking Romanian folk heritage to global modern art. Many other artists have since echoed that admiration in their work.
At the exhibition, with support from the National Museum of the Romanian Peasant, visitors were invited to admire embroidered garments from different parts of Romania, along with other traditional crafts: delicate veils (marame), ritual towels (ștergare), vibrant ceramics, and ceremonial masks.
Mr. Virgil Nițulescu, Director of the museum, emphasized in his speech the significance of the “altiță”—the richly embroidered shoulder motif on the blouse—recently recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Cross-Cultural Bridges Through Art and Music
Art speaks in all languages and this event proved it. To further enrich the Romanian-Korean dialogue, renowned Korean painter Min Tae-hong was invited to present his works. Known for his distinctive ‘Jiduhwa’ technique—painting with nails and fingers instead of brushes—Min recently impressed with a series exploring galaxies, crafted using meteorite powder and five-color paints. His contribution to the exhibition brought a futuristic contrast to the rooted traditions of Romanian folk art, symbolizing how heritage and innovation can harmoniously coexist.
The emotional core of the event came from Jong Soo Jung, Korean pan flute artist and former student of Romanian maestro Gheorghe Zamfir, who performed traditional Romanian melodies. His mini-concert not only impressed the audience, but felt like a heartfelt tribute to the cultural ties he himself embodies.
Crafting Together: The Spirit of Șezătoare in Seoul
A truly special element of the day was the embroidery workshop hosted by Asociația Șezătoarea, a group of Romanian women living in Korea who are dedicated to preserving and teaching the art of embroidery.
In Romanian tradition, a șezătoare was a communal gathering, usually among women during winter evenings, where they would sit together, spin, weave, sew, or embroider, while also sharing stories, songs, and laughter. It was as much about handiwork as it was about connection and cultural transmission.
Founded in 2022, the Seoul-based community led by Tatiana Mardare and Lidia Bordea welcomed participants to try their hand at stitching elements of the ie—a therapeutic, beautiful, and deeply symbolic practice. Their work shows that tradition is not something static, but something to be shared, learned, and carried forward, even thousands of kilometers from home.
Diplomacy with Heart
R – Romanian and Korean officials deliver opening remarks. ©Embassy of Romania in Seoul
In his opening remarks, Romanian Ambassador Cezar Armeanu highlighted the growing strategic partnership between Romania and Korea. Over the past 35 years, the two nations have expanded their cooperation in numerous areas—politics, defense, education, culture—turning a diplomatic relationship into a genuine friendship.
As guests sipped fine Romanian wine and sampled elegant French-style catering, the ambiance became one of connection, curiosity, and celebration. With nearly 90 guests, including diplomats, cultural professionals, and curious Koreans, “Romanian Rhapsody” became a meeting point between heritage and future.
Meaning Beyond Tradition
R – Display of traditional Romanian blouses and embroidery books. ©Sezatoarea Korea
I believe this event is not just another cultural showcase. It is a powerful reminder of how identity can travel, evolve, and find new resonance abroad. As a Romanian who often writes about Korea, I felt proud to see our traditions honored with such warmth and elegance.
Events like this are vital, not just for marking anniversaries, but for building living bridges between countries. The Romanian blouse, with all its stories, stitches, and soul, found a new home in Seoul, even if just for a few days.
If you are in Seoul and curious to discover Romania’s cultural soul through traditional costumes, embroidery, and art, don’t miss the exhibition, which runs from July 21 to 25, 2025, at Art Space Hoseo, located at 1F, 9 Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu. Admission is free.
Special thanks to FlipKorea for sharing info and providing images from the event. FlipKorea is a platform promoting cultural exchanges and contemporary stories that connect Korea to the world—Romania included.
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