The South Korean city of Gwangju hosted Beyond Borders: The New Wave of Asian Performing Arts 2025 from 2–5 October, bringing together artists from across the continent in a vibrant display of cultural collaboration and creativity.
Organised by the Asia Culture Center (ACC) under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Republic of Korea, the four-day event featured performances, workshops, and artistic exchanges involving participants from eleven Asian nations, including Bangladesh, Japan, India, Malaysia, Mongolia, and Vietnam.
Representing Bangladesh, Syeda Saheda Begum, Cultural Officer at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, served on the festival committee, while Hasan Zabed, Special Correspondent for NTV, attended as an invited observer. The Bangladeshi dance troupe Kathakia drew wide acclaim for their soulful blend of folk rhythm and classical movement, earning praise from both audiences and critics.
Each day of the festival offered a distinct focus — from the opening night's showcase of traditional drumming and dance, to collaborative workshops exploring contemporary choreography, and performances highlighting Asia's diverse living traditions. The festival culminated in a mass ensemble symbolising unity and peace among participating nations.
Established in 2015, the ACC stands as Gwangju's centre for cross-cultural exchange and creative research. Built on a site tied to the May 18 Democratic Uprising, it continues to promote dialogue, innovation, and understanding across Asia.
Bangladesh's involvement in Beyond Borders 2025 underscored the country's growing presence in regional cultural diplomacy. "Bangladesh's art carries both heritage and innovation," said Ms Begum. "To share that on an international stage is to let the world hear our cultural heartbeat."