GYEONGJU, South Korea—Gyeongju is a city with historical and cultural significance in Korea. Shen Yun Performing Arts held two performances there, introducing the beauty of traditional Chinese culture to the ancient city.

“This is the birthplace of Silla culture. The rise and fall of Silla culture all occurred here. I believe that holding and seeing this performance in Gyeongju today carries ... historical significance,” shared Moon-tae Park, chairman of the Cultural Information Center in the northern region of Gyeongbuk province.

“Culture always coexists with history. You can never escape culture. Since culture will always continue, everyone should understand the cultures of other countries as well as their own,” exclaimed Mr. Park.

When he learned that Shen Yun is not able to perform in China, he expressed his sorrow for the Chinese people not being able to see their own culture.

“The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) censors information from its people. This is very regrettable. Such a brilliant culture cannot be carried forward in its own country. Shouldn’t the Chinese feel more regretful than us Koreans?” said Mr. Park.

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“Although I’ve heard about it many times before, seeing the characters entering the water and giant dragons soaring into the sky was still very impactful,” he said.

The technique involved in the illusion of leaping from the stage and into the backdrop is patented by Shen Yun.

“This is a completely new stage. When a person disappears on stage, they appear in the sky ...  A completely new scene unfolded before my eyes,” he praised.

Sang-yong Kim, president of the Gyeongju Branch of the Korean Arts Federation, was also in the audience on May 8.

“I think this is the highest art. Shen Yun is the best among arts and the highest art,” said Mr. Kim.

“I am the general manager of this theater, and Shen Yun prepares a day in advance. I started seeing their entire rehearsal process yesterday, and I knew right away that Shen Yun is the best,” he shared.

“Art is a visual art that transcends language. Stage performances portray the performer’s thoughts and ideas. Unlike visual art, Shen Yun performances allow people to see and feel its vitality, which is more effective than visual art,” remarked Mr. Kim.

Mr. Kim understands many forms of art. He expressed that Shen Yun’s art is superior.

“I think Shen Yun is better than visual arts. I think Shen Yun’s performances are excellent, and it’s the essence of art. I hold Shen Yun in high regard,” he said.

“Art contains things like philosophy and belief. I think Koreans can understand this,” he said.

“I also hope that many people can come to see it and share it,” he said.

“I know Shen Yun is a very good arts group. I know this very well. Shen Yun has toured all over the world. As an artist, I would like to express my congratulations and my gratitude to them for putting on such an excellent show in Korea,” said Mr. Kim.