The Millennium Mystery of Buddhist Art: Seokguram

This landmark exhibition, "The Millennium Mystery of Buddhist Art: Seokguram," takes place at the Korean Cultural Center in Paris. Running from October 1, 2026, until March 13, 2027, the event introduces the rich heritage of Korea, particularly the Seokguram Grotto, to French audiences while marking 140 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

The exhibition features an immersive digital installation that projects a three-dimensional scan of the grotto's interior onto the walls and floor, creating a sense of entering the eighth-century artificial stone grotto near Gyeongju. Visitors can also view photographs, engage with a tactile 3D model intended for the visually impaired, and discover contemporary Korean artworks inspired by Silla-era Buddhist relics. Seokguram, which houses a significant seated Buddha statue, was recognized as one of the first Korean sites on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1995.

A companion cultural festival, "Korea on Stage in Paris," is scheduled from October 1 to 7, 2026. This festival features outdoor performances of traditional Korean music and dance, which will take place at Parisian landmarks, including the Trocadero. Additionally, it offers educational programs for local students, and immersive sessions on Buddhist meditation and temple cuisine, led by the renowned chef-monk Jeong Kwan. The exhibition and festival are organized by the Korea Heritage Service, the Korean Cultural Center in France, the Gyeongju city government, and other institutions.