Ashraf AboArafe
A special exhibition titled “Ham, What We Hold Together” opened yesterday at the Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo, marking the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Korea and the Arab Republic of Egypt. Running until September 28, 2025, the exhibition invites visitors to journey through the shared history of friendship and cooperation between the two nations.
Hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Republic of Korea and organized by the Korea Foundation for International Cultural Exchange (KOFICE), the event is presented in partnership with the Presidential Archives of Korea, the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Egyptian Ministry of Culture.
The exhibition showcases 17 diplomatic artifacts, including official documents, videos, and gifts exchanged by leaders of both countries over three decades. Visitors can also explore Korean intangible cultural heritage, contemporary crafts, and unique works crafted by Korean artists on Egyptian papyrus — a vivid symbol of cultural blending.
The inauguration was attended by distinguished guests, including Eng. Ahmed Youssef, CEO of the Egyptian Tourism Authority; Ambassador-designate Hazem Zaki of Egypt to Korea; senior Egyptian officials; ambassadors; and members of the diplomatic corps.
In his opening remarks, H.E. Kim Yonghyon, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Egypt, explained that Ham (meaning “Box”) is a traditional Korean gift symbolizing a “new beginning” and a “promise.” He noted:
“By choosing Ham as the title of this exhibition, we wished to reflect on the 30 years of friendship and cooperation between our two countries and to share its meaning and memories with the people of Egypt.”
Among the highlights are precious gifts Egypt presented to former Korean presidents: a silver casket engraved with arabesque patterns, decorative models of the pyramids and the Sphinx, and a crystal ornament shaped like the Solar Boat. Historical documents exchanged between presidents and senior officials of both nations also bring history to life.
The exhibition is part of a broader series of cultural, political, and economic events celebrating three decades of Korea–Egypt relations.
Ambassador Kim concluded:
“I am confident that as the years go by, our two countries will discover even greater significance beyond the 30 years we have built together and will continue to forge an ever-closer relationship.”
