KOREAN NET

The exhibition "The Make-up of Princess Hwahyeop," which opened on Jan. 29 at the Korean Cultural Center in the United Arab Emirates, offers a glimpse of the lives and culture of women in the royal court of the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). (Korea National University of Heritage)

By Lee Dasom

An exhibition at the Korean Cultural Center (KCC) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) sheds light on the lives and aesthetic tastes of women in the royal court of Korea's Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910).

Korea National University of Heritage (KNUH) of the Korea Heritage Service on Feb. 5 said the permanent exhibition "The Make-up of Princess Hwahyeop" has a modern take on the living space of the eponymous princess, who was the daughter of King Yeongjo, the dynasty's 21st monarch, and considered a stunning beauty.

On display are traditional cosmetics, handicrafts, Hanbok (traditional clothing) and items of gyubang (women's quarters) culture, allowing a firsthand glimpse of the lives and culture of Joseon women.

Other items feature modern interpretations of traditional art such as "Princess Hwahyeop's Dress" by Hanbok illustrator Wooh Nayoung, aka Obsidian, offering new inspiration from traditional craft culture.

The university said, "When the K-Royal Culture Festival last year presented this content at exhibitions and interactive programs, it was praised as an opportunity to experience traditional arts, handicrafts and the lifestyle culture of the Joseon Dynasty's royal women. Because it attracted so much attention, we also expect a major response to this exhibition in the UAE from locals."

More information on the exhibition is on the KCC's website (https://uae.korean-culture.org/ko) or via phone (+971 2-491-7227).

dlektha0319@korea.kr