KOREA FOUNDATION

Thanks to the two countries’ time-tested relationship, Turkey is often called a “brother” to Korea. In 1998, the Istanbul Cultural Center was established in the Jamwon neighborhood in Seoul’s Seocho District to maintain and develop this special bond. Since then, the private institute has grown into a bridge between the two countries, providing various Turkey-related materials to the Korean public.

Visitors may view or borrow books on the transcontinental country classified by category, as well as visual materials and various periodicals that provide tourist tips and information on Turkey’s domestic situation. The center’s small exhibition hall displays photographs, artworks, clothes, handicrafts, folk art, and ceramics, and the materials on show rotate by exhibition period.

Taking in the exhibits, particularly the uniquely patterned Turkish clothes and colorfully decorated ceramics, visitors will soon forget that they are in Korea, finding themselves on a virtual trip to Turkey.

The Istanbul Cultural Center serves its mission by offering opportunities to learn about and experience Turkey in depth. These include special lectures; academic exchange programs; exhibitions and events; culture, history, and Turkish language classes; and tourism programs between Turkey and Korea.

Written by Lee Haeng-rim
Illustrated by EEWHA

TurkeyThe Istanbul Cultural CenterTurkish language classes