Free cultural shows added across nation

Locals have enjoyed free or discounted cultural programs every last Wednesday of the month thanks to government efforts to promote cultural experiences for all.

And this month, similar programs will be offered at tourist sites outside of Seoul, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism announced yesterday.

Tomorrow, 35 national parks will offer a 50 percent discount to visitors, the ministry said. A variety of cultural offerings like a photo exhibition, a concert and a seaside film screening will take place.

For those who can’t go to the mountains or beaches for vacation, there will also be a host of free or discounted cultural programs in various other venues. These include a dance performance at the square in the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts; a gugak (traditional Korean music) show at the outdoor stage of the Andong Culture and Art Center in Andong, North Gyeongsang; and a jazz concert at the outdoor stage of the Ulsan Culture Art Center in Ulsan.

Ministry officials say their cultural expansion program will reach more regions and institutions in the coming months.

“More regions and schools will take part in the program,” said Bae Jong-min of the ministry team representing the initiative.

BY KIM HYUNG-EUN [hkim@joongang.co.kr]