1 week Ago By The Korea Herald
Starbucks Korea announced Monday it will host an exhibition at Deoksugung to mark the 80th anniversary of National Liberation Day. The showcase, running from Tuesday through April 20, features handwritten calligraphy by independence fighters that the coffee chain has donated over the years. Titled "Calligraphy That Becomes a Shining Star: The Second Light," the exhibition brings together 11 historic pieces entrusted by Starbucks Korea to the National Trust for Cultural Heritage since 2015.
Among the featured works are those penned by some of revered Korean figures including Kim Koo, Ahn Chang-ho, Oh Se-chang and Sin Ik-hui. The exhibition highlights Starbucks Korea’s ongoing partnership with the Korea Heritage Service since 2009, during which it has engaged in efforts such as the restoration of the Old Korean Legation building in Washington, the donation of artifacts related to Korea’s independence movement and the sponsorship of cultural events in Korea. “The event mirrors the company’s endeavor to protect the nation’s legacy of independence,” an official from Starbucks Korea said.
In July last year, Starbucks Korea opened its Hwangudan store dedicated to cultural preservation and pledged 1 billion won ($680,000) over five years to national heritage initiatives. Since 2015, the company’s total contributions have reached 1.1 billion won.
To mark the exhibition, on April 12, Starbucks will host traditional Korean music performances and offer complimentary coffee to visitors with reusable cups. Throughout the exhibition period, the first 100 visitors each day who post as required on social media will receive a tumbler featuring calligraphy from the show, according to the company. “We’re honored to share these invaluable cultural treasures with the public,” said an official from the National Trust for Cultural Heritage.
“We will continue to ensure that Korea’s rich heritage is preserved and passed down to future generations.”.
